Both the MasterCraft PS197 2009 and the MasterCraft X-2 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?

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - MasterCraft PS197 2009 at 19,0 ft versus MasterCraft X-2 SS 2008 at 20,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the MasterCraft X-2 SS 2008 tips the scales at 3 350 lbs - 550 lbs less than the MasterCraft PS197 2009 at 2 800 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 PS197 2009 is rated for 7 passengers, while the MasterCraft X-2 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 PS197 2009 could be the deciding factor.