Matching a modified vee Sunsation 288 SS Mid-Cabin Open Bow 2009 against a deep vee Sunsation 288 SSR 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Sunsation 288 SS Mid-Cabin Open Bow 2009 at 28,0 ft versus Sunsation 288 SSR 2012 at 28,7 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Sunsation 288 SS Mid-Cabin Open Bow 2009 tips the scales at 465 lbs — 420 lbs more than the Sunsation 288 SSR 2012 at 45 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 600 hp, the Sunsation 288 SS Mid-Cabin Open Bow 2009 has a 280-hp advantage over the Sunsation 288 SSR 2012's 320-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Sunsation 288 SS Mid-Cabin Open Bow 2009 carries 95 gallons versus 11 gallons in the Sunsation 288 SSR 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 8 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 Sunsation 288 SS Mid-Cabin Open Bow 2009 and its 600-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the Sunsation 288 SSR 2012 with its 320-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.