The G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2011 vs G3 Boats Welded Jon - 1860VBW 2006 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 1860 SC DLX 2011 at 18,1 ft versus G3 Boats Welded Jon - 1860VBW 2006 at 17,0 ft. At 88 lbs and 5 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 90 hp, the G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2011 has a 30-hp advantage over the G3 Boats Welded Jon - 1860VBW 2006's 60-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 Welded Jon - 1860VBW 2006 is rated for 7 passengers, while the G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2011 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the G3 Boats Welded Jon - 1860VBW 2006 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the G3 Boats Welded Jon - 1860VBW 2006 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 7 passengers and at 17,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.