Matching a deep vee Zodiac Medline IV 2011 against a inflatable non rigid Zodiac Zoom 260 S 2008 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 19,9 additional feet of deck space compared to the Zodiac Zoom 260 S 2008 at 8,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Zodiac Medline IV 2011 tips the scales at 3 527 lbs — 3 461 lbs more than the Zodiac Zoom 260 S 2008 at 66 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 346-hp advantage over the Zodiac Zoom 260 S 2008's 4-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 Zoom 260 S 2008 caps at 3. 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 Zoom 260 S 2008 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 3 that costs less to run day-to-day.