Matching a inflatable non rigid Zodiac 470 DL 2009 against a deep vee Zodiac Pro Classic 550 2013 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 90 hp for the Zodiac 470 DL 2009 and 90 hp for the Zodiac Pro Classic 550 2013. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Zodiac Pro Classic 550 2013 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Zodiac 470 DL 2009 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Zodiac Pro Classic 550 2013 could be the deciding factor.
The Zodiac Pro Classic 550 2013 has a documented top speed of 42 mph. Speed data wasn't available for the other model.
The Zodiac Pro Classic 550 2013 is an inflatable design — lighter, easier to store, and quicker to launch from a beach or dock without a slipway. The Zodiac 470 DL 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 Pro Classic 550 2013 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 12 passengers and at 17,1 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Zodiac 470 DL 2009 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 9 that costs less to run day-to-day.