Matching a inflatable non rigid Zodiac Cadet Solid 285 2011 against a deep vee Zodiac Medline IV 2011 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 Zodiac Medline IV 2011 measures 27,9 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 18,6 additional feet of deck space compared to the Zodiac Cadet Solid 285 2011 at 9,3 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Zodiac Medline IV 2011 tips the scales at 3 527 lbs — 3 441 lbs less than the Zodiac Cadet Solid 285 2011 at 86 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 350 hp, the Zodiac Medline IV 2011 has a 342-hp advantage over the Zodiac Cadet Solid 285 2011's 8-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 Medline IV 2011 is rated for 8 passengers, while the Zodiac Cadet Solid 285 2011 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Zodiac Medline IV 2011 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Zodiac Medline IV 2011 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 8 passengers and at 27,9 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Zodiac Cadet Solid 285 2011 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 4 that costs less to run day-to-day.