The Scout 180 Bay Scout 2008 is a modified-V design and the Scout 345 XSF 2012 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 345 XSF 2012 measures 34,9 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 17,9 additional feet of deck space compared to the Scout 180 Bay Scout 2008 at 17,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Scout 345 XSF 2012 tips the scales at 10 800 lbs - 9 600 lbs less than the Scout 180 Bay Scout 2008 at 1 200 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 700 hp, the Scout 345 XSF 2012 has a 610-hp advantage over the Scout 180 Bay Scout 2008's 90-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 345 XSF 2012 carries 330 gallons versus 34 gallons in the Scout 180 Bay Scout 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 345 XSF 2012 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Scout 180 Bay Scout 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 345 XSF 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Scout 345 XSF 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 10 passengers and at 34,9 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Scout 180 Bay Scout 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.