The Scout 160 Dorado 2008 is a modified-V design and the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 is a deep-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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Scout 242 Dorado 2008 measures 24,0 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 9,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Scout 160 Dorado 2008 at 15,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 tips the scales at 2 600 lbs - 1 660 lbs less than the Scout 160 Dorado 2008 at 940 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 300 hp, the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 has a 240-hp advantage over the Scout 160 Dorado 2008's 60-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 carries 100 gallons versus 18 gallons in the Scout 160 Dorado 2008. 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 Scout 242 Dorado 2008 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Scout 160 Dorado 2008 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 7 passengers and at 24,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Scout 160 Dorado 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.