Matching a tunnel G3 Boats Jet Tunnel 1860 CCJ 2011 against a deep vee G3 Boats V172 C 2009 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — G3 Boats Jet Tunnel 1860 CCJ 2011 at 18,1 ft versus G3 Boats V172 C 2009 at 17,0 ft. At 83 lbs and 151 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 115 hp, the G3 Boats V172 C 2009 has a 25-hp advantage over the G3 Boats Jet Tunnel 1860 CCJ 2011's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the G3 Boats V172 C 2009 carries 33 gallons versus 12 gallons in the G3 Boats Jet Tunnel 1860 CCJ 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The G3 Boats Jet Tunnel 1860 CCJ 2011 is rated for 6 passengers, while the G3 Boats V172 C 2009 caps at 5. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the G3 Boats Jet Tunnel 1860 CCJ 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the G3 Boats Jet Tunnel 1860 CCJ 2011 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 V172 C 2009 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 5 that costs less to run day-to-day.