Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 boat specs
Sweetwater
Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003
2003
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VS
Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES  2002 boat specs
Sweetwater
Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002
2002
View full specs →

Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 vs Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 — Same Brand, Different Boat

The Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 vs Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 at 24,0 ft versus Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 at 24,0 ft. At 187 lbs and 176 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.

Both boats are rated for 14 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 Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 and Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 are closely matched on the specs that matter most. Test-ride both on the water you actually use, check current dealer pricing, and factor in long-term service access before you sign.
General Boat Info
MakeSweetwater
MakeSweetwater
Model2423 EL
ModelChallenger 240 ES
Model Year2003
Model Year2002
Measurements / Dimensions
Beam8 ft
Beam8 ft. 0 in
Beam - Meters2.44
Beam - Meters2.44
Beam - Inches96
Beam - Inches96
Weight - Detail1870 lbs
Weight - Detail1760 lbs
Weight - kg848.22
Weight - kg798.32
Weight - lbs.187
Weight - lbs.176
Length - Feet24
Length - Feet24
Length overall - Detail24 ft. 0 in
Length overall - Detail24 ft. 0 in
Length overall - Meters7.32
Length overall - Meters7.32
Length overall - Inches288
Length overall - Inches288
Pontoon and Inflatable Specific
Tube diameter23 in
Tube diameter22 in
Engine and Drivetrain
Engine/s standard130 hp Max
Engine/s standard60 hp Max
Fuel tank capacity - Detail24 gal
Fuel tank capacity - Detail24 gal. - opt
Fuel tank capacity - Liters90.85
Fuel tank capacity - Liters90.85
Fuel tank capacity - Gal24
Fuel tank capacity - Gal24
Drive typeOutBoard
Drive typeOutBoard
Operational Info
Maximum capacity2025 lbs
Maximum capacity1935 lbs
Maximum people14
Maximum people14

Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 vs Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 — Common Questions

Which is the larger boat — the Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 or the Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002?
The Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 is the longer of the two at 24,0 feet overall. The Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 comes in at 24,0 feet, making it roughly 0,0 ft shorter — a meaningful difference in deck room and overall on-water presence.
Which is easier to trailer — the Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 or the Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002?
For trailering, the Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 has the edge at 176 lbs dry weight versus 187 lbs for the Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003. Add a motor (typically 300–500 lbs for an outboard in this class), gear, and a partial fuel load and the difference grows. Lighter is friendlier on smaller tow vehicles and on fuel economy while hauling.
How many people can each boat hold?
The Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 is Coast Guard rated for 14 passengers, while the Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 is certified for 14. Note that legal capacity and comfortable capacity aren't always the same thing — on a full day out, most experienced boaters aim for about 80% of the rated number to keep things comfortable.
Do these boats require an oversize trailer permit to tow on US highways?
Both the Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 and Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 share an 8 ft beam — meaning both sit right at the 8’6" threshold that most US states use for standard-width loads. In most states you can tow at that width without a special permit, but regulations vary. Always check the rules for your state and any states you'll be passing through before your first long haul.
How do the fuel tanks compare on the Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 and Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002?
Both boats carry similar fuel loads — 24 gallons and 24 gallons respectively. Range will depend heavily on motor choice, throttle usage, and whether you're on flat lake water or coastal chop.
Are the Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 and Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 from the same manufacturer?
Yes — both the Sweetwater 2423 EL 2003 and the Sweetwater Challenger 240 ES 2002 are built by Sweetwater. That means shared dealer networks, common parts availability, and consistent build quality across the line. The choice between them is essentially a question of how much boat you need, not which brand you trust.