Both the Scout 245 Abaco 2011 and the Scout 345 XSF 2012 are deep-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?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Scout 345 XSF 2012 measures 34,9 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 10,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the Scout 245 Abaco 2011 at 24,4 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Scout 345 XSF 2012 tips the scales at 10 800 lbs - 8 200 lbs less than the Scout 245 Abaco 2011 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 700 hp, the Scout 345 XSF 2012 has a 400-hp advantage over the Scout 245 Abaco 2011'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 345 XSF 2012 carries 330 gallons versus 125 gallons in the Scout 245 Abaco 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 10 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 345 XSF 2012 at 34,9 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Scout 245 Abaco 2011 at 24,4 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.