Both the Crownline 280 CR 2013 and the Crownline E6 EC 2013 are deep-V designs, both built in fibreglass, so 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?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Crownline 280 CR 2013 at 28,7 ft versus Crownline E6 EC 2013 at 26,3 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Crownline 280 CR 2013 tips the scales at 7 600 lbs - 1 900 lbs more than the Crownline E6 EC 2013 at 5 700 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 430 hp for the Crownline 280 CR 2013 and 430 hp for the Crownline E6 EC 2013. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Crownline 280 CR 2013 carries 75 gallons versus 55 gallons in the Crownline E6 EC 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 8 passengers - a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Bottom line: The Crownline 280 CR 2013 at 28,7 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Crownline E6 EC 2013 at 26,3 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking - a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.