The Regal Boats 28 Express 2017 vs Regal Boats 2800 Bowrider 2022 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.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 380 hp, the Regal Boats 2800 Bowrider 2022 has a 80-hp advantage over the Regal Boats 28 Express 2017's 300-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Regal Boats 2800 Bowrider 2022 carries 108 gallons versus 73 gallons in the Regal Boats 28 Express 2017. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 8 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the Regal Boats 2800 Bowrider 2022 and its 380-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Regal Boats 28 Express 2017 with its 300-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.