When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Crownline 185 SS 2011 and the Crownline 240 EX 2010 are modified vee designs with fiberglass construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Crownline 240 EX 2010 measures 24,5 feet overall (2010), giving it roughly 6,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the Crownline 185 SS 2011 at 18,4 feet (2011). At 32 lbs and 5 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 320 hp, the Crownline 240 EX 2010 has a 100-hp advantage over the Crownline 185 SS 2011's 220-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Crownline 185 SS 2011 carries 25 gallons versus 5 gallons in the Crownline 240 EX 2010. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Crownline 240 EX 2010 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Crownline 185 SS 2011 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Crownline 240 EX 2010 could be the deciding factor.