Both the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 and the Scout 262 Abaco 2013 are deep-V designs, the first built in composite and the second 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 - Scout 242 Dorado 2008 at 24,0 ft versus Scout 262 Abaco 2013 at 26,2 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Scout 262 Abaco 2013 tips the scales at 4 800 lbs - 2 200 lbs less than the Scout 242 Dorado 2008 at 2 600 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 400 hp, the Scout 262 Abaco 2013 has a 100-hp advantage over the Scout 242 Dorado 2008'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 Scout 262 Abaco 2013 carries 130 gallons versus 100 gallons in the Scout 242 Dorado 2008. 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: The Scout 262 Abaco 2013 at 26,2 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Scout 242 Dorado 2008 at 24,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking - a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.