The Monterey 278SS 2009 is a deep-V design and the Monterey M5 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 M5 2010 at 25,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Monterey 278SS 2009 tips the scales at 5 500 lbs - 300 lbs more than the Monterey M5 2010 at 5 200 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling - 425 hp for the Monterey 278SS 2009 and 425 hp for the Monterey M5 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. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Monterey 278SS 2009 carries 89 gallons versus 80 gallons in the Monterey M5 2010. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.