1968 Pearson 26 vs Hunter 240 — Comparison
1968 Pearson 26
Hunter 240
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1968 Pearson 26 | Hunter 240 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Pearson | Hunter |
| Year | 1968–1975 | 1999–2004 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | William Shaw | Glenn Henderson |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 7.92 m (26.0 ft) | 7.32 m (24.0 ft) |
| LWL | 6.10 m (20.0 ft) | 6.17 m (20.2 ft) |
| Beam | 2.44 m (8.0 ft) | 2.44 m (8.0 ft) |
| Draft | 1.14 m (3.7 ft) | 1.22 m (4.0 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 2,041 kg (4,500 lbs) | 1,361 kg (3,000 lbs) |
| Ballast | 862 kg (1,900 lbs) | 476 kg (1,049 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 27.0 m² (291 ft²) | 22.5 m² (242 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 10 HP | 8 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 30 L (7.9 gal) | 19 L (5.0 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 38 L (10.0 gal) | 30 L (7.9 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 4 | 4 |
| Cabins | 1 | 1 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1968 Pearson 26 and Hunter 240 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1968 Pearson 26 is a classic design by Pearson from USA, while the Hunter 240 is a 1990s offering from Hunter from USA. The 1968 Pearson 26 was penned by William Shaw. The Hunter 240 was designed by Glenn Henderson.
In terms of size, the 1968 Pearson 26 measures 7.92m (26.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.44m, compared to the Hunter 240 at 7.32m (24.0ft) with a 2.44m beam. The 1968 Pearson 26 is 0.60m longer than the Hunter 240. The 1968 Pearson 26 displaces approximately 50% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1968 Pearson 26 has good sail power for versatile performance with an SA/D ratio of 17.06 and 27.0 m² of sail area. The Hunter 240, with an SA/D of 18.62 and 22.5 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The Hunter 240 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1968 Pearson 26 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 21.7) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.77). The Hunter 240 has a comfort ratio of 15.0 and a capsize screening value of 0.88. The ballast ratios are 42.2% for the 1968 Pearson 26 and 35.0% for the Hunter 240, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1968 Pearson 26 provides 4 berths in 1 cabin with 38L of water capacity and 30L of fuel. The Hunter 240 offers 4 berths in 1 cabin with 30L water and 19L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1968 Pearson 26 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 Hunter 240 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: 1968 Pearson 26 · Hunter 240