The AB Inflatables 8 VL 2009 vs AB-Inflatables Lammina 15 AL 2016 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The AB-Inflatables Lammina 15 AL 2016 measures 15,0 feet overall (2016), giving it roughly 6,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the AB Inflatables 8 VL 2009 at 8,5 feet (2009). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the AB-Inflatables Lammina 15 AL 2016 tips the scales at 339 lbs — 244 lbs less than the AB Inflatables 8 VL 2009 at 95 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 60 hp, the AB-Inflatables Lammina 15 AL 2016 has a 52-hp advantage over the AB Inflatables 8 VL 2009's 8-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
Both boats are rated for 4 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.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The AB-Inflatables Lammina 15 AL 2016 comes in at 6 lbs per hp versus 12 lbs per hp for the AB Inflatables 8 VL 2009. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
The AB-Inflatables Lammina 15 AL 2016 is trailerable — a genuine lifestyle advantage at this size. The AB Inflatables 8 VL 2009 isn't listed as trailerable, which may mean a permanent berth or mooring is required.
Bottom line: The AB-Inflatables Lammina 15 AL 2016 at 15,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The AB Inflatables 8 VL 2009 at 8,5 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.