The Rinker 370 Express Cruiser 2008 is a modified-V design and the Rinker Captiva 296 CC 2012 is a deep-V design, so you're likely deciding between two noticeably different on-water experiences. Hull type shapes everything from ride quality and fuel burn to dock handling and resale trajectory.

The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 430 hp, the Rinker Captiva 296 CC 2012 has a 55-hp advantage over the Rinker 370 Express Cruiser 2008's 375-hp ceiling - enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Rinker 370 Express Cruiser 2008 carries 235 gallons versus 100 gallons in the Rinker Captiva 296 CC 2012. 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 Rinker 370 Express Cruiser 2008 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Rinker Captiva 296 CC 2012 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Rinker 370 Express Cruiser 2008 could be the deciding factor.