2016 Dehler 30 OD vs 1983 Pearson 31 — Comparison
1983 Pearson 31
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 2016 Dehler 30 OD | 1983 Pearson 31 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Dehler | Pearson |
| Year | 2016 | 1983–1990 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | Germany | USA |
| Designer | Judel/Vrolijk | William Shaw |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 9.45 m (31.0 ft) | 9.45 m (31.0 ft) |
| LWL | 8.60 m (28.2 ft) | 7.77 m (25.5 ft) |
| Beam | 2.98 m (9.8 ft) | 3.10 m (10.2 ft) |
| Draft | 1.95 m (6.4 ft) | 1.52 m (5.0 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 3,700 kg (8,157 lbs) | 4,309 kg (9,500 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,350 kg (2,976 lbs) | 1,814 kg (3,999 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 46.0 m² (495 ft²) | 40.0 m² (431 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 15 HP | 18 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 35 L (9.2 gal) | 68 L (18.0 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 60 L (15.9 gal) | 114 L (30.1 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 4 | 6 |
| Cabins | 1 | 2 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 2016 Dehler 30 OD and 1983 Pearson 31 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 2016 Dehler 30 OD is a modern design by Dehler from Germany, while the 1983 Pearson 31 is a 1980s offering from Pearson from USA. The 2016 Dehler 30 OD was penned by Judel/Vrolijk. The 1983 Pearson 31 was designed by William Shaw.
In terms of size, the 2016 Dehler 30 OD measures 9.45m (31.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.98m, compared to the 1983 Pearson 31 at 9.45m (31.0ft) with a 3.10m beam. The 1983 Pearson 31 displaces approximately 16% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 2016 Dehler 30 OD has good sail power for versatile performance with an SA/D ratio of 19.54 and 46.0 m² of sail area. The 1983 Pearson 31, with an SA/D of 15.35 and 40.0 m² of canvas, offers moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising. The 2016 Dehler 30 OD has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 2016 Dehler 30 OD offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 16.9) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.77). The 1983 Pearson 31 has a comfort ratio of 21.4 and a capsize screening value of 0.76. The ballast ratios are 36.5% for the 2016 Dehler 30 OD and 42.1% for the 1983 Pearson 31, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 2016 Dehler 30 OD provides 4 berths in 1 cabin with 60L of water capacity and 35L of fuel. The 1983 Pearson 31 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L water and 68L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1983 Pearson 31 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 2016 Dehler 30 OD has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: The 1983 Pearson 31 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: 2016 Dehler 30 OD · 1983 Pearson 31