The Monterey 260SCR 2011 is a modified-V design and the Monterey 280SY 2013 is a deep-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 - Monterey 260SCR 2011 at 27,5 ft versus Monterey 280SY 2013 at 29,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Monterey 280SY 2013 tips the scales at 8 200 lbs - 1 000 lbs less than the Monterey 260SCR 2011 at 7 200 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.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 425 hp, the Monterey 280SY 2013 has a 105-hp advantage over the Monterey 260SCR 2011's 320-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Monterey 280SY 2013 carries 90 gallons versus 80 gallons in the Monterey 260SCR 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.