Both the Scout 245 XSF 2009 and the Scout 251 XS 2012 are modified-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?
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department - Scout 245 XSF 2009 at 24,0 ft versus Scout 251 XS 2012 at 24,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Scout 245 XSF 2009 tips the scales at 2 600 lbs - 300 lbs more than the Scout 251 XS 2012 at 2 300 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 251 XS 2012 has a 50-hp advantage over the Scout 245 XSF 2009's 250-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 245 XSF 2009 carries 125 gallons versus 80 gallons in the Scout 251 XS 2012. 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: Performance buyers should lean toward the Scout 251 XS 2012 and its 300-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Scout 245 XSF 2009 with its 250-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.