1986 J/28 vs Catalina 323 — Comparison
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1986 J/28 | Catalina 323 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | J/Boats | Catalina |
| Year | 1986–1990 | 2004–2009 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Rod Johnstone | Gerry Douglas |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 8.66 m (28.4 ft) | 9.75 m (32.0 ft) |
| LWL | 7.32 m (24.0 ft) | 8.84 m (29.0 ft) |
| Beam | 3.05 m (10.0 ft) | 3.25 m (10.7 ft) |
| Draft | 1.68 m (5.5 ft) | 1.75 m (5.7 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 2,948 kg (6,499 lbs) | 4,763 kg (10,501 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,361 kg (3,000 lbs) | 1,814 kg (3,999 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 37.6 m² (405 ft²) | 46.0 m² (495 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 12 HP | 21 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 38 L (10.0 gal) | 76 L (20.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 151 L (39.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 5 | 6 |
| Cabins | 1 | 1 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1986 J/28 and Catalina 323 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1986 J/28 is a 1980s design by J/Boats from USA, while the Catalina 323 is a 2000s offering from Catalina from USA. The 1986 J/28 was penned by Rod Johnstone. The Catalina 323 was designed by Gerry Douglas.
In terms of size, the 1986 J/28 measures 8.66m (28.4ft) overall with a beam of 3.05m, compared to the Catalina 323 at 9.75m (32.0ft) with a 3.25m beam. The Catalina 323 is 1.09m longer than the 1986 J/28. The Catalina 323 displaces approximately 62% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1986 J/28 has good sail power for versatile performance with an SA/D ratio of 18.59 and 37.6 m² of sail area. The Catalina 323, with an SA/D of 16.51 and 46.0 m² of canvas, offers moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising. The 1986 J/28 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1986 J/28 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 17.2) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.85). The Catalina 323 has a comfort ratio of 18.3 and a capsize screening value of 0.77. The ballast ratios are 46.2% for the 1986 J/28 and 38.1% for the Catalina 323, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1986 J/28 provides 5 berths in 1 cabin with 57L of water capacity and 38L of fuel. The Catalina 323 offers 6 berths in 1 cabin with 151L water and 76L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The Catalina 323 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 1986 J/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 Catalina 323 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: 1986 J/28 · Catalina 323