The Sunsation 36 SSR 2012 vs Sunsation Sunsation 288 2007 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Sunsation 36 SSR 2012 measures 36,0 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 8,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Sunsation Sunsation 288 2007 at 28,0 feet (2007). At 79 lbs and 45 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 Sunsation Sunsation 288 2007 tops out at 600 hp. Engine specs for the Sunsation 36 SSR 2012 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Sunsation 36 SSR 2012 carries 145 gallons versus 11 gallons in the Sunsation Sunsation 288 2007. 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 Sunsation 36 SSR 2012 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Sunsation Sunsation 288 2007 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Sunsation 36 SSR 2012 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Sunsation 36 SSR 2012 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 10 passengers and at 36,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Sunsation Sunsation 288 2007 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 8 that costs less to run day-to-day.