Matching a modified vee Monterey 290 CR 2008 against a deep vee Monterey 318SSX 2009 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 290 CR 2008 at 31,0 ft versus Monterey 318SSX 2009 at 31,0 ft. At 1 lbs and 8 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 — 300 hp for the Monterey 290 CR 2008 and 320 hp for the Monterey 318SSX 2009. 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 — 142 gal and 142 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.

The Monterey 290 CR 2008 is rated for up to 9 people. Passenger data for the Monterey 318SSX 2009 wasn't available.