The Monterey 278SS 2009 is a deep-V design and the Monterey 278SS 2010 is a modified-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 278SS 2009 at 28,0 ft versus Monterey 278SS 2010 at 28,8 ft. At 5 500 lbs and 5 500 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 425 hp for the Monterey 278SS 2009 and 425 hp for the Monterey 278SS 2010. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads - 89 gal and 89 gal - so range won't be a tiebreaker here.