1991 Najad 373 vs 1972 Ericson 32 — Comparison

1991 Najad 373
VS
1972 Ericson 321972 Ericson 32

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1991 Najad 3731972 Ericson 32
General
ManufacturerNajadEricson
Year1991–20021972–1978
TypeSloopSloop
CountrySwedenUSA
DesignerJudel/VrolijkBruce King
Dimensions
LOA11.28 m (37.0 ft)9.75 m (32.0 ft)
LWL8.99 m (29.5 ft)7.62 m (25.0 ft)
Beam3.47 m (11.4 ft)3.05 m (10.0 ft)
Draft1.80 m (5.9 ft)1.52 m (5.0 ft)
Weight
Displacement7,711 kg (17,000 lbs)4,309 kg (9,500 lbs)
Ballast3,175 kg (7,000 lbs)1,814 kg (3,999 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area60.8 m² (654 ft²)39.0 m² (420 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine35 HP15 HP
Fuel Capacity150 L (39.6 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Water Capacity250 L (66.0 gal)95 L (25.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1991 Najad 373
15.83
1972 Ericson 32
14.97
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1991 Najad 373
41.17
1972 Ericson 32
42.10
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1991 Najad 373
0.70
1972 Ericson 32
0.75
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1991 Najad 373
24.12
1972 Ericson 32
21.98

Detailed Comparison

The 1991 Najad 373 and 1972 Ericson 32 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1991 Najad 373 is a 1990s design by Najad from Sweden, while the 1972 Ericson 32 is a 1970s offering from Ericson from USA. The 1991 Najad 373 was penned by Judel/Vrolijk. The 1972 Ericson 32 was designed by Bruce King.

In terms of size, the 1991 Najad 373 measures 11.28m (37.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.47m, compared to the 1972 Ericson 32 at 9.75m (32.0ft) with a 3.05m beam. The 1991 Najad 373 is 1.53m longer than the 1972 Ericson 32. The 1991 Najad 373 displaces approximately 79% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1991 Najad 373 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.83 and 60.8 m² of sail area. The 1972 Ericson 32, with an SA/D of 14.97 and 39.0 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The 1991 Najad 373 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1991 Najad 373 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 24.1) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.70). The 1972 Ericson 32 has a comfort ratio of 22.0 and a capsize screening value of 0.75. The ballast ratios are 41.2% for the 1991 Najad 373 and 42.1% for the 1972 Ericson 32, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1991 Najad 373 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 250L of water capacity and 150L of fuel. The 1972 Ericson 32 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 95L water and 57L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1991 Najad 373 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 1991 Najad 373 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: 1991 Najad 373 · 1972 Ericson 32