Matching a flat G3 Boats 1236 Jon 2012 against a pontoon G3 Boats LV 168 F/C 2012 means you're likely deciding between two genuinely 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 G3 Boats LV 168 F/C 2012 measures 16,0 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 4,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the G3 Boats 1236 Jon 2012 at 11,9 feet (2012). At 144 lbs and 116 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.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 60 hp, the G3 Boats LV 168 F/C 2012 has a 50-hp advantage over the G3 Boats 1236 Jon 2012's 10-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 G3 Boats LV 168 F/C 2012 is rated for 6 passengers, while the G3 Boats 1236 Jon 2012 caps at 2. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the G3 Boats LV 168 F/C 2012 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The G3 Boats LV 168 F/C 2012 comes in at 2 lbs per hp versus 14 lbs per hp for the G3 Boats 1236 Jon 2012. 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.
Bottom line: Choose the G3 Boats LV 168 F/C 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 6 passengers and at 16,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The G3 Boats 1236 Jon 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 2 that costs less to run day-to-day.