Both the Rinker 340 Express Cruiser 2009 and the Rinker Captiva 228 2011 are modified-V designs, both built in fibreglass, so 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 Rinker 340 Express Cruiser 2009 measures 35,0 feet overall (2009), giving it roughly 12,3 additional feet of deck space compared to the Rinker Captiva 228 2011 at 22,7 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Rinker 340 Express Cruiser 2009 tips the scales at 14 100 lbs - 9 069 lbs more than the Rinker Captiva 228 2011 at 5 031 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 Rinker Captiva 228 2011 tops out at 320 hp. Engine specs for the Rinker 340 Express Cruiser 2009 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Rinker 340 Express Cruiser 2009 carries 168 gallons versus 59 gallons in the Rinker Captiva 228 2011. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 10 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.