Matching a inflatable rigid Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 against a inflatable non rigid Zodiac Zoom SP 350 ALU 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.

On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 at 11,0 ft versus Zodiac Zoom SP 350 ALU 2013 at 11,5 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 tips the scales at 661 lbs — 518 lbs more than the Zodiac Zoom SP 350 ALU 2013 at 143 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 98 hp, the Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 has a 78-hp advantage over the Zodiac Zoom SP 350 ALU 2013's 20-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 Zoom SP 350 ALU 2013 is rated for 5 passengers, while the Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Zodiac Zoom SP 350 ALU 2013 could be the deciding factor.

At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 comes in at 7 lbs per hp versus 7 lbs per hp for the Zodiac Zoom SP 350 ALU 2013. 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.

The Zodiac ProJet 350 2008 has a documented top speed of 45 mph. Speed data wasn't available for the other model.