When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2012 and the G3 Boats Riveted Jon - 1442 2009 are flat designs with aluminum construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2012 measures 18,1 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 5,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the G3 Boats Riveted Jon - 1442 2009 at 13,0 feet (2009). At 88 lbs and 2 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 2012 has a 65-hp advantage over the G3 Boats Riveted Jon - 1442 2009's 25-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 1860 SC DLX 2012 is rated for 6 passengers, while the G3 Boats Riveted Jon - 1442 2009 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the G3 Boats 1860 SC DLX 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 6 passengers and at 18,1 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The G3 Boats Riveted Jon - 1442 2009 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.