1986 Island Packet 27 vs 1973 Ranger 33 — Comparison
1973 Ranger 33
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1986 Island Packet 27 | 1973 Ranger 33 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Island Packet | Ranger |
| Year | 1986–1994 | 1973–1979 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | USA | USA |
| Designer | Bob Johnson | Gary Mull |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 8.23 m (27.0 ft) | 10.06 m (33.0 ft) |
| LWL | 7.01 m (23.0 ft) | 8.23 m (27.0 ft) |
| Beam | 2.90 m (9.5 ft) | 3.05 m (10.0 ft) |
| Draft | 1.07 m (3.5 ft) | 1.52 m (5.0 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 3,175 kg (7,000 lbs) | 4,763 kg (10,501 lbs) |
| Ballast | 1,270 kg (2,800 lbs) | 2,041 kg (4,500 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 29.0 m² (312 ft²) | 43.0 m² (463 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Fiberglass |
| Keel Type | Full | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 15 HP | 15 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 57 L (15.1 gal) | 57 L (15.1 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 95 L (25.1 gal) | 95 L (25.1 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 4 | 6 |
| Cabins | 1 | 2 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1986 Island Packet 27 and 1973 Ranger 33 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1986 Island Packet 27 is a 1980s design by Island Packet from USA, while the 1973 Ranger 33 is a 1970s offering from Ranger from USA. The 1986 Island Packet 27 was penned by Bob Johnson. The 1973 Ranger 33 was designed by Gary Mull.
In terms of size, the 1986 Island Packet 27 measures 8.23m (27.0ft) overall with a beam of 2.90m, compared to the 1973 Ranger 33 at 10.06m (33.0ft) with a 3.05m beam. The 1973 Ranger 33 is 1.83m longer than the 1986 Island Packet 27. The 1973 Ranger 33 displaces approximately 50% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1986 Island Packet 27 has modest sail power for its displacement with an SA/D ratio of 13.64 and 29.0 m² of sail area. The 1973 Ranger 33, with an SA/D of 15.43 and 43.0 m² of canvas, offers moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising. The 1973 Ranger 33 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1986 Island Packet 27 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 21.7) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.79). The 1973 Ranger 33 has a comfort ratio of 21.5 and a capsize screening value of 0.73. The ballast ratios are 40.0% for the 1986 Island Packet 27 and 42.9% for the 1973 Ranger 33, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1986 Island Packet 27 provides 4 berths in 1 cabin with 95L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The 1973 Ranger 33 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 95L water and 57L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1986 Island Packet 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 1973 Ranger 33 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.
For liveaboard: The 1973 Ranger 33 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: 1986 Island Packet 27 · 1973 Ranger 33