When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Sweetwater SW 2086 FC 2012 and the Sweetwater SW 2186 RE3 2008 are pontoon 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 Sweetwater SW 2186 RE3 2008 measures 21,0 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 19,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Sweetwater SW 2086 FC 2012 at 2,0 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Sweetwater SW 2086 FC 2012 tips the scales at 2 318 lbs — 624 lbs more than the Sweetwater SW 2186 RE3 2008 at 1 694 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 115 hp, the Sweetwater SW 2186 RE3 2008 has a 25-hp advantage over the Sweetwater SW 2086 FC 2012's 90-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Both carry nearly identical fuel loads — 24 gal and 24 gal — so range won't be a tiebreaker here.
Both boats are rated for 1 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.
Bottom line: The Sweetwater SW 2186 RE3 2008 at 21,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Sweetwater SW 2086 FC 2012 at 2,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.