The Four Winns Horizon 260 2012 is a deep-V design and the Four Winns SL242 2011 is a modified-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Four Winns Horizon 260 2012 at 26,0 ft versus Four Winns SL242 2011 at 24,4 ft. At 5 100 lbs and 5 080 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 380 hp for the Four Winns Horizon 260 2012 and 380 hp for the Four Winns SL242 2011. 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 Four Winns Horizon 260 2012 carries 70 gallons versus 58 gallons in the Four Winns SL242 2011. 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 Four Winns Horizon 260 2012 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Four Winns SL242 2011 caps at 12. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Four Winns Horizon 260 2012 could be the deciding factor.