Matching a deep vee ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2012 against a modified vee ThunderJet TJ Offshore Inboards 2010 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 ThunderJet TJ Offshore Inboards 2010 measures 28,0 feet overall (2010), giving it roughly 7,6 additional feet of deck space compared to the ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2012 at 20,4 feet (2012). At 13 lbs and 9 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 ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2012 carries a rated maximum of 150 hp. Engine data for the ThunderJet TJ Offshore Inboards 2010 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The ThunderJet TJ Offshore Inboards 2010 is rated for 9 passengers, while the ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2012 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the ThunderJet TJ Offshore Inboards 2010 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the ThunderJet TJ Offshore Inboards 2010 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 9 passengers and at 28,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The ThunderJet 185 Explorer 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 6 that costs less to run day-to-day.