1984 Cape Dory 33 vs 2010 Elan 340 — Comparison

1984 Cape Dory 33
VS
2010 Elan 3402010 Elan 340

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1984 Cape Dory 332010 Elan 340
General
ManufacturerCape DoryElan
Year1984–19902010–2014
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSASlovenia
DesignerCarl AlbergRob Humphreys
Dimensions
LOA10.06 m (33.0 ft)10.36 m (34.0 ft)
LWL7.92 m (26.0 ft)9.00 m (29.5 ft)
Beam3.12 m (10.2 ft)3.40 m (11.2 ft)
Draft1.45 m (4.8 ft)1.95 m (6.4 ft)
Weight
Displacement4,990 kg (11,001 lbs)5,800 kg (12,787 lbs)
Ballast2,177 kg (4,799 lbs)1,750 kg (3,858 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area44.0 m² (474 ft²)55.0 m² (592 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFullFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine22 HP21 HP
Fuel Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)80 L (21.1 gal)
Water Capacity151 L (39.9 gal)160 L (42.3 gal)
Accommodation
Berths56
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1984 Cape Dory 33
15.31
2010 Elan 340
17.31
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1984 Cape Dory 33
43.63
2010 Elan 340
30.17
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1984 Cape Dory 33
0.73
2010 Elan 340
0.76
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1984 Cape Dory 33
22.98
2010 Elan 340
19.73

Detailed Comparison

The 1984 Cape Dory 33 and 2010 Elan 340 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1984 Cape Dory 33 is a 1980s design by Cape Dory from USA, while the 2010 Elan 340 is a modern offering from Elan from Slovenia. The 1984 Cape Dory 33 was penned by Carl Alberg. The 2010 Elan 340 was designed by Rob Humphreys.

In terms of size, the 1984 Cape Dory 33 measures 10.06m (33.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.12m, compared to the 2010 Elan 340 at 10.36m (34.0ft) with a 3.40m beam. The 2010 Elan 340 is 0.30m longer than the 1984 Cape Dory 33. The 2010 Elan 340 displaces approximately 16% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1984 Cape Dory 33 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.31 and 44.0 m² of sail area. The 2010 Elan 340, with an SA/D of 17.31 and 55.0 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. The 2010 Elan 340 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1984 Cape Dory 33 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 23.0) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.73). The 2010 Elan 340 has a comfort ratio of 19.7 and a capsize screening value of 0.76. The ballast ratios are 43.6% for the 1984 Cape Dory 33 and 30.2% for the 2010 Elan 340, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1984 Cape Dory 33 provides 5 berths in 2 cabins with 151L of water capacity and 76L of fuel. The 2010 Elan 340 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 160L water and 80L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1984 Cape Dory 33 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 2010 Elan 340 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.

For liveaboard: The 2010 Elan 340 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: 1984 Cape Dory 33 · 2010 Elan 340