The Xpress HDSC Series - HD17SCA 2008 is a modified-V design and the Xpress Rear Entry - XP26RE 2008 is a pontoon 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 Xpress Rear Entry - XP26RE 2008 measures 26,0 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 9,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Xpress HDSC Series - HD17SCA 2008 at 17,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Xpress Rear Entry - XP26RE 2008 tips the scales at 2 255 lbs - 1 335 lbs less than the Xpress HDSC Series - HD17SCA 2008 at 920 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 115 hp, the Xpress Rear Entry - XP26RE 2008 has a 25-hp advantage over the Xpress HDSC Series - HD17SCA 2008's 90-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Xpress Rear Entry - XP26RE 2008 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Xpress HDSC Series - HD17SCA 2008 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Xpress Rear Entry - XP26RE 2008 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Xpress Rear Entry - XP26RE 2008 if your priority is putting more people on the water - it handles 12 passengers and at 26,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Xpress HDSC Series - HD17SCA 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 4 that costs less to run day-to-day.