1971 Ranger 26 vs 1977 Westsail 28 — Comparison
1971 Ranger 26
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1971 Ranger 26 | 1977 Westsail 28 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Ranger | Westsail |
| Year | 1971–1976 | 1977–1983 |
| Type | Sloop | Cutter |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Gary Mull | William Crealock |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 7.92 m (26.0 ft) | 8.53 m (28.0 ft) |
| LWL | 6.40 m (21.0 ft) | 7.01 m (23.0 ft) |
| Beam | 2.62 m (8.6 ft) | 2.90 m (9.5 ft) |
| Draft | 1.22 m (4.0 ft) | 1.37 m (4.5 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 2,177 kg (4,799 lbs) | 5,443 kg (12,000 lbs) |
| Ballast | 907 kg (2,000 lbs) | 2,268 kg (5,000 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 29.5 m² (318 ft²) | 34.0 m² (366 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Full |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 10 HP | 18 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 30 L (7.9 gal) | 76 L (20.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 45 L (11.9 gal) | 151 L (39.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 5 | 4 |
| Cabins | 1 | 1 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1971 Ranger 26 and 1977 Westsail 28 represent different approaches to sailboat design. The 1971 Ranger 26 is a 1970s design by Ranger from USA, while the 1977 Westsail 28 is a 1970s offering from Westsail from USA. The 1971 Ranger 26 was penned by Gary Mull. The 1977 Westsail 28 was designed by William Crealock.
In terms of size, the 1971 Ranger 26 measures 7.92m (26.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.62m, compared to the 1977 Westsail 28 at 8.53m (28.0ft) with a 2.90m beam. The 1977 Westsail 28 is 0.61m longer than the 1971 Ranger 26. The 1977 Westsail 28 displaces approximately 150% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1971 Ranger 26 has good sail power for versatile performance with an SA/D ratio of 17.85 and 29.5 m² of sail area. The 1977 Westsail 28, with an SA/D of 11.16 and 34.0 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The 1971 Ranger 26 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1971 Ranger 26 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 19.7) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.81). The 1977 Westsail 28 has a comfort ratio of 36.3 and a capsize screening value of 0.66. The ballast ratios are 41.7% for the 1971 Ranger 26 and 41.7% for the 1977 Westsail 28, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1971 Ranger 26 provides 5 berths in 1 cabin with 45L of water capacity and 30L of fuel. The 1977 Westsail 28 offers 4 berths in 1 cabin with 151L water and 76L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1977 Westsail 28 is the better choice for comfortable cruising thanks to its higher comfort ratio, offering a gentler motion at sea that crews will appreciate on longer passages.
For racing: The 1971 Ranger 26 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: The 1971 Ranger 26 offers more sleeping accommodation, making it better suited for extended living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.
Compare Different Boats
Looking for a different matchup? Browse All Boats
Or view individual specs: 1971 Ranger 26 · 1977 Westsail 28