Matching a modified vee Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 against a flat Sylvan Jon 1032 2012 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 measures 17,0 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 16,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Sylvan Jon 1032 2012 at 1,0 feet (2012). At 11 lbs and 1 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 135 hp, the Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 has a 132-hp advantage over the Sylvan Jon 1032 2012's 3-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Sylvan Jon 1032 2012 caps at 2. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 could be the deciding factor.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 comes in at 0 lbs per hp versus 0 lbs per hp for the Sylvan Jon 1032 2012. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Bottom line: Choose the Sylvan Explorer 1700 DC 2008 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 5 passengers and at 17,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Sylvan Jon 1032 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 2 that costs less to run day-to-day.