Matching a modified vee Scout 160 Sportfish 2010 against a deep vee Scout 262 XSF 2011 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Scout 262 XSF 2011 measures 26,2 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 10,7 additional feet of deck space compared to the Scout 160 Sportfish 2010 at 15,5 feet (2010). At 94 lbs and 39 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.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 350 hp, the Scout 262 XSF 2011 has a 280-hp advantage over the Scout 160 Sportfish 2010's 70-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 262 XSF 2011 carries 145 gallons versus 18 gallons in the Scout 160 Sportfish 2010. 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 262 XSF 2011 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Scout 160 Sportfish 2010 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Scout 262 XSF 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Scout 262 XSF 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 7 passengers and at 26,2 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Scout 160 Sportfish 2010 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.