When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Glastron GLS 255 2011 and the Glastron GS 289 SC 2010 are deep 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 Glastron GS 289 SC 2010 measures 30,3 feet overall (2010), giving it roughly 5,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Glastron GLS 255 2011 at 25,3 feet (2011). At 46 lbs and 65 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 Glastron GLS 255 2011 carries a rated maximum of 400 hp. Engine data for the Glastron GS 289 SC 2010 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Glastron GS 289 SC 2010 carries 84 gallons versus 56 gallons in the Glastron GLS 255 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 Glastron GLS 255 2011 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Glastron GS 289 SC 2010 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Glastron GLS 255 2011 could be the deciding factor.