When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Zodiac Cadet 310 S 2008 and the Zodiac Cadet Solid 340 2012 are inflatable non rigid designs with inflatable 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 Zodiac Cadet Solid 340 2012 measures 11,2 feet overall (2012), giving it roughly 10,2 additional feet of deck space compared to the Zodiac Cadet 310 S 2008 at 1,0 feet (2008). At 93 lbs and 115 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.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 15 hp for the Zodiac Cadet 310 S 2008 and 20 hp for the Zodiac Cadet Solid 340 2012. 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.
Both boats are rated for 5 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.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Zodiac Cadet Solid 340 2012 comes in at 6 lbs per hp versus 6 lbs per hp for the Zodiac Cadet 310 S 2008. 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.
Top speed is rated at 28 mph for the Zodiac Cadet Solid 340 2012 and 22 mph for the Zodiac Cadet 310 S 2008.
The Zodiac Cadet Solid 340 2012 is an inflatable design — lighter, easier to store, and quicker to launch from a beach or dock without a slipway. The Zodiac Cadet 310 S 2008 is a rigid hull, which typically offers a more confident ride in chop and easier maintenance over the long term.
Bottom line: The Zodiac Cadet Solid 340 2012 at 11,2 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Zodiac Cadet 310 S 2008 at 1,0 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.