Matching a deep vee Monterey 260SCR 2012 against a modified vee Monterey M5 2010 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely 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 2012 at 27,5 ft versus Monterey M5 2010 at 25,8 ft. At 72 lbs and 52 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 425 hp, the Monterey M5 2010 has a 105-hp advantage over the Monterey 260SCR 2012's 320-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 8 gal and 8 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.