The Monterey 263 EX Explorer 2006 vs Monterey 298 SC 2002 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Monterey 298 SC 2002 measures 31,1 feet overall (2002), giving it roughly 7,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the Monterey 263 EX Explorer 2006 at 24,0 feet (2006). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Monterey 298 SC 2002 tips the scales at 8 157 lbs — 8 101 lbs less than the Monterey 263 EX Explorer 2006 at 56 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 Monterey 263 EX Explorer 2006 carries a rated maximum of 375 hp. Engine data for the Monterey 298 SC 2002 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Monterey 298 SC 2002 carries 142 gallons versus 6 gallons in the Monterey 263 EX Explorer 2006. 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 Monterey 298 SC 2002 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Monterey 263 EX Explorer 2006 caps at 7. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Monterey 298 SC 2002 could be the deciding factor.