The SouthWind 2010 L 2008 is a pontoon design and the SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 is a modified-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 SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 measures 25,5 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 5,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the SouthWind 2010 L 2008 at 20,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 tips the scales at 3 700 lbs - 500 lbs less than the SouthWind 2010 L 2008 at 3 200 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 200 hp, the SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 has a 85-hp advantage over the SouthWind 2010 L 2008's 115-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 carries 55 gallons versus 35 gallons in the SouthWind 2010 L 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 SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 is rated for 12 passengers, while the SouthWind 2010 L 2008 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the SouthWind 2400 SD 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 12 passengers and at 25,5 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The SouthWind 2010 L 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 9 that costs less to run day-to-day.