Modified transom? 1980 SF

[Luna41]

So I am the proud new owner of a project boat - 1980 seafari. The blame for this purchase- and the next two years' work and mountains of money lies squarely with all the members that post pictures of their beautifully restored seacrafts! I bought the boat even though I have never see a wide splashwell and short "cut" transom. Can anyone shed some light on this? I can't see any repairs under the gunnels or around the splashwell. Was this style an option?