Matching a inflatable non rigid Zodiac 265 Aero 2012 against a inflatable rigid Zodiac 850 2009 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.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 350 hp, the Zodiac 850 2009 has a 344-hp advantage over the Zodiac 265 Aero 2012's 6-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 Zodiac 850 2009 is rated for 15 passengers, while the Zodiac 265 Aero 2012 caps at 3. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Zodiac 850 2009 could be the deciding factor.
The Zodiac 265 Aero 2012 has a documented top speed of 12 mph. Speed data wasn't available for the other model.
The Zodiac 265 Aero 2012 is an inflatable design — lighter, easier to store, and quicker to launch from a beach or dock without a slipway. The Zodiac 850 2009 is a rigid hull, which typically offers a more confident ride in chop and easier maintenance over the long term.
Bottom line: Choose the Zodiac 850 2009 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 15 passengers and at 27,9 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Zodiac 265 Aero 2012 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.