1977 Westsail 28 vs 1975 Pearson 28 — Comparison

1977 Westsail 28
VS
1975 Pearson 281975 Pearson 28

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1977 Westsail 281975 Pearson 28
General
ManufacturerWestsailPearson
Year1977–19831975–1982
TypeCutterSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerWilliam CrealockWilliam Shaw
Dimensions
LOA8.53 m (28.0 ft)8.53 m (28.0 ft)
LWL7.01 m (23.0 ft)7.01 m (23.0 ft)
Beam2.90 m (9.5 ft)2.74 m (9.0 ft)
Draft1.37 m (4.5 ft)1.37 m (4.5 ft)
Weight
Displacement5,443 kg (12,000 lbs)2,948 kg (6,499 lbs)
Ballast2,268 kg (5,000 lbs)1,270 kg (2,800 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area34.0 m² (366 ft²)30.0 m² (323 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFullFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine18 HP10 HP
Fuel Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)38 L (10.0 gal)
Water Capacity151 L (39.9 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths45
Cabins11

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1977 Westsail 28
11.16
1975 Pearson 28
14.83
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1977 Westsail 28
41.67
1975 Pearson 28
43.08
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1977 Westsail 28
0.66
1975 Pearson 28
0.77
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1977 Westsail 28
36.34
1975 Pearson 28
21.23

Detailed Comparison

The 1977 Westsail 28 and 1975 Pearson 28 represent different approaches to sailboat design. The 1977 Westsail 28 is a 1970s design by Westsail from USA, while the 1975 Pearson 28 is a 1970s offering from Pearson from USA. The 1977 Westsail 28 was penned by William Crealock. The 1975 Pearson 28 was designed by William Shaw.

In terms of size, the 1977 Westsail 28 measures 8.53m (28.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.90m, compared to the 1975 Pearson 28 at 8.53m (28.0ft) with a 2.74m beam. The 1977 Westsail 28 displaces approximately 85% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1977 Westsail 28 has modest sail power for its displacement with an SA/D ratio of 11.16 and 34.0 m² of sail area. The 1975 Pearson 28, with an SA/D of 14.83 and 30.0 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The 1975 Pearson 28 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1977 Westsail 28 offers a comfortable motion suitable for extended cruising (comfort ratio: 36.3) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.66). The 1975 Pearson 28 has a comfort ratio of 21.2 and a capsize screening value of 0.77. The ballast ratios are 41.7% for the 1977 Westsail 28 and 43.1% for the 1975 Pearson 28, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1977 Westsail 28 provides 4 berths in 1 cabin with 151L of water capacity and 76L of fuel. The 1975 Pearson 28 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 57L water and 38L 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 1975 Pearson 28 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.

For liveaboard: The 1975 Pearson 28 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: 1977 Westsail 28 · 1975 Pearson 28