1963 Cal 40 vs 1976 C&C 33 — Comparison

1963 Cal 401963 Cal 40
VS
1976 C&C 33

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1963 Cal 401976 C&C 33
General
ManufacturerCalC&C Yachts
Year1963–19721976–1982
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSACanada
DesignerBill LapworthCuthbertson & Cassian
Dimensions
LOA12.19 m (40.0 ft)10.06 m (33.0 ft)
LWL9.14 m (30.0 ft)8.23 m (27.0 ft)
Beam3.35 m (11.0 ft)3.35 m (11.0 ft)
Draft1.83 m (6.0 ft)1.52 m (5.0 ft)
Weight
Displacement7,030 kg (15,498 lbs)4,536 kg (10,000 lbs)
Ballast2,722 kg (6,001 lbs)2,041 kg (4,500 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area61.3 m² (660 ft²)42.0 m² (452 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine22 HP15 HP
Fuel Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Water Capacity114 L (30.1 gal)95 L (25.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1963 Cal 40
16.97
1976 C&C 33
15.57
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1963 Cal 40
38.72
1976 C&C 33
45.00
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1963 Cal 40
0.70
1976 C&C 33
0.81
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1963 Cal 40
21.35
1976 C&C 33
18.07

Detailed Comparison

The 1963 Cal 40 and 1976 C&C 33 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1963 Cal 40 is a classic design by Cal from USA, while the 1976 C&C 33 is a 1970s offering from C&C Yachts from Canada. The 1963 Cal 40 was penned by Bill Lapworth. The 1976 C&C 33 was designed by Cuthbertson & Cassian.

In terms of size, the 1963 Cal 40 measures 12.19m (40.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.35m, compared to the 1976 C&C 33 at 10.06m (33.0ft) with a 3.35m beam. The 1963 Cal 40 is 2.13m longer than the 1976 C&C 33. The 1963 Cal 40 displaces approximately 55% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1963 Cal 40 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 16.97 and 61.3 m² of sail area. The 1976 C&C 33, with an SA/D of 15.57 and 42.0 m² of canvas, offers moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising. The 1963 Cal 40 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1963 Cal 40 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 21.4) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.70). The 1976 C&C 33 has a comfort ratio of 18.1 and a capsize screening value of 0.81. The ballast ratios are 38.7% for the 1963 Cal 40 and 45.0% for the 1976 C&C 33, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1963 Cal 40 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L of water capacity and 76L of fuel. The 1976 C&C 33 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 95L water and 57L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1963 Cal 40 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 1963 Cal 40 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: 1963 Cal 40 · 1976 C&C 33