273 vs 283
It depends on the person and what they want it for...I have the 273 and find its the best fit for me. The 283 seems to be a "bigger" boat, the extra foot width, gives that impression. I've fished on the 283 several times and really find very little difference in ride between the two boats, I have noticed when we fished as partners the 283, will run just slightly faster thru the sea then I do...but the extra weight and foot width allowed this. Of course at the end of the day when he pulls up to the gas pump at the marina and pays $3+ for gas and I load up on trailer and pull to local gas station and get for $2.75. another thing I have noticed is (we both have t/225's on the back), the 273 gets away with any where between 15-20% less fuel then the 283...I think alot of this is with the person behind the wheel, as the owner of the 283, likes to show off a little even on 70-100 mile runs off shore, he'll be the type to open her up (WOT), just for fun for a mile or two. All, I can say take a sea trail on both boats and make the decision yourself as to what fits you the best. Remember one thing.....storage is of a premium on center consoles of any size, the more you get, the more you take with you.