The G3 Boats 1548 VBW Welded Loose Jon 2022 vs G3 Boats 1652 DK 2011 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — G3 Boats 1548 VBW Welded Loose Jon 2022 at 14,1 ft versus G3 Boats 1652 DK 2011 at 15,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the G3 Boats 1548 VBW Welded Loose Jon 2022 tips the scales at 340 lbs — 274 lbs more than the G3 Boats 1652 DK 2011 at 66 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 50 hp, the G3 Boats 1652 DK 2011 has a 25-hp advantage over the G3 Boats 1548 VBW Welded Loose Jon 2022's 25-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 G3 Boats 1652 DK 2011 comes in at 1 lbs per hp versus 14 lbs per hp for the G3 Boats 1548 VBW Welded Loose Jon 2022. 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 G3 Boats 1548 VBW Welded Loose Jon 2022 is trailerable — a genuine lifestyle advantage at this size. The G3 Boats 1652 DK 2011 isn't listed as trailerable, which may mean a permanent berth or mooring is required.
Bottom line: Performance buyers should lean toward the G3 Boats 1652 DK 2011 and its 50-hp ceiling. If fuel economy and quieter running matter more than top-end speed, the G3 Boats 1548 VBW Welded Loose Jon 2022 with its 25-hp rating is the more economical daily driver.