Both the Regulator 24 FS 2010 and the Regulator 26FS 2009 are modified-V designs, both built in fibreglass, so the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Regulator 24 FS 2010 at 24,7 ft versus Regulator 26FS 2009 at 25,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Regulator 24 FS 2010 tips the scales at 5 350 lbs - 250 lbs more than the Regulator 26FS 2009 at 5 100 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 500 hp, the Regulator 26FS 2009 has a 150-hp advantage over the Regulator 24 FS 2010's 350-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Regulator 26FS 2009 carries 200 gallons versus 150 gallons in the Regulator 24 FS 2010. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 7 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 Regulator 26FS 2009 and its 500-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Regulator 24 FS 2010 with its 350-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.