2008 Contest 50CS vs 2017 Dehler 46 — Comparison
2017 Dehler 46
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 2008 Contest 50CS | 2017 Dehler 46 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Contest | Dehler |
| Year | 2008–2018 | 2017 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | Netherlands | Germany |
| Designer | Dick Zaal | Judel/Vrolijk |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 15.25 m (50.0 ft) | 14.10 m (46.3 ft) |
| LWL | 12.80 m (42.0 ft) | 12.80 m (42.0 ft) |
| Beam | 4.40 m (14.4 ft) | 4.20 m (13.8 ft) |
| Draft | 2.25 m (7.4 ft) | 2.30 m (7.5 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 16,500 kg (36,376 lbs) | 10,500 kg (23,149 lbs) |
| Ballast | 6,200 kg (13,669 lbs) | 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 108.0 m² (1,163 ft²) | 96.0 m² (1,033 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Steel | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 110 HP | 55 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 450 L (118.9 gal) | 130 L (34.3 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 700 L (184.9 gal) | 250 L (66.0 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 8 | 8 |
| Cabins | 3 | 3 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 2008 Contest 50CS and 2017 Dehler 46 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 2008 Contest 50CS is a 2000s design by Contest from Netherlands, while the 2017 Dehler 46 is a modern offering from Dehler from Germany. The 2008 Contest 50CS was penned by Dick Zaal. The 2017 Dehler 46 was designed by Judel/Vrolijk.
In terms of size, the 2008 Contest 50CS measures 15.25m (50.0ft) overall with a beam of 4.40m, compared to the 2017 Dehler 46 at 14.10m (46.3ft) with a 4.20m beam. The 2008 Contest 50CS is 1.15m longer than the 2017 Dehler 46. The 2008 Contest 50CS displaces approximately 57% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 2008 Contest 50CS has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 16.92 and 108.0 m² of sail area. The 2017 Dehler 46, with an SA/D of 20.34 and 96.0 m² of canvas, offers generous sail power for spirited sailing. The 2017 Dehler 46 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 2008 Contest 50CS offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 19.2) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.69). The 2017 Dehler 46 has a comfort ratio of 13.7 and a capsize screening value of 0.77. The ballast ratios are 37.6% for the 2008 Contest 50CS and 33.3% for the 2017 Dehler 46, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 2008 Contest 50CS provides 8 berths in 3 cabins with 700L of water capacity and 450L of fuel. The 2017 Dehler 46 offers 8 berths in 3 cabins with 250L water and 130L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 2008 Contest 50CS 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 2017 Dehler 46 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: Both boats provide similar accommodation, making either a viable choice for 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: 2008 Contest 50CS · 2017 Dehler 46