Both the MasterCraft 280 STS 2008 and the MasterCraft X-30 SS 2008 are modified-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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The MasterCraft 280 STS 2008 measures 28,0 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 6,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the MasterCraft X-30 SS 2008 at 22,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the MasterCraft 280 STS 2008 tips the scales at 6 200 lbs - 2 080 lbs more than the MasterCraft X-30 SS 2008 at 4 120 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.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The MasterCraft 280 STS 2008 is rated for 8 passengers, while the MasterCraft X-30 SS 2008 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the MasterCraft 280 STS 2008 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the MasterCraft 280 STS 2008 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 8 passengers and at 28,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The MasterCraft X-30 SS 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.