1981 Pearson 36 vs 1971 C&C 27 — Comparison

1981 Pearson 361981 Pearson 36
VS
1971 C&C 271971 C&C 27

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1981 Pearson 361971 C&C 27
General
ManufacturerPearsonC&C Yachts
Year1981–19851971–1975
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSACanada
DesignerWilliam ShawCuthbertson & Cassian
Dimensions
LOA10.67 m (35.0 ft)8.23 m (27.0 ft)
LWL8.84 m (29.0 ft)6.55 m (21.5 ft)
Beam3.51 m (11.5 ft)2.74 m (9.0 ft)
Draft1.52 m (5.0 ft)1.37 m (4.5 ft)
Weight
Displacement6,124 kg (13,501 lbs)2,495 kg (5,501 lbs)
Ballast2,495 kg (5,501 lbs)1,043 kg (2,299 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area51.6 m² (555 ft²)31.0 m² (334 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine22 HP10 HP
Fuel Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)38 L (10.0 gal)
Water Capacity114 L (30.1 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths75
Cabins21

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1981 Pearson 36
15.66
1971 C&C 27
17.13
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1981 Pearson 36
40.74
1971 C&C 27
41.80
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1981 Pearson 36
0.77
1971 C&C 27
0.81
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1981 Pearson 36
20.04
1971 C&C 27
20.13

Detailed Comparison

The 1981 Pearson 36 and 1971 C&C 27 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1981 Pearson 36 is a 1980s design by Pearson from USA, while the 1971 C&C 27 is a 1970s offering from C&C Yachts from Canada. The 1981 Pearson 36 was penned by William Shaw. The 1971 C&C 27 was designed by Cuthbertson & Cassian.

In terms of size, the 1981 Pearson 36 measures 10.67m (35.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.51m, compared to the 1971 C&C 27 at 8.23m (27.0ft) with a 2.74m beam. The 1981 Pearson 36 is 2.44m longer than the 1971 C&C 27. The 1981 Pearson 36 displaces approximately 145% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1981 Pearson 36 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.66 and 51.6 m² of sail area. The 1971 C&C 27, with an SA/D of 17.13 and 31.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The 1971 C&C 27 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1981 Pearson 36 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 20.0) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.77). The 1971 C&C 27 has a comfort ratio of 20.1 and a capsize screening value of 0.81. The ballast ratios are 40.7% for the 1981 Pearson 36 and 41.8% for the 1971 C&C 27, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1981 Pearson 36 provides 7 berths in 2 cabins with 114L of water capacity and 76L of fuel. The 1971 C&C 27 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 57L water and 38L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1971 C&C 27 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 1971 C&C 27 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.

For liveaboard: The 1981 Pearson 36 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: 1981 Pearson 36 · 1971 C&C 27