The Monterey 298 SC 2002 vs Monterey M-65 2020 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 4,4 additional feet of deck space compared to the Monterey M-65 2020 at 26,7 feet (2020). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Monterey 298 SC 2002 tips the scales at 8 157 lbs — 2 957 lbs more than the Monterey M-65 2020 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.
The Monterey M-65 2020 tops out at 400 hp. Engine specs for the Monterey 298 SC 2002 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Monterey 298 SC 2002 carries 142 gallons versus 8 gallons in the Monterey M-65 2020. 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 M-65 2020 caps at 8. 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.
Bottom line: Choose the Monterey 298 SC 2002 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 9 passengers and at 31,1 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Monterey M-65 2020 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 8 that costs less to run day-to-day.