1994 J/105 vs 1975 Pearson 28 — Comparison

1994 J/105
VS
1975 Pearson 281975 Pearson 28

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1994 J/1051975 Pearson 28
General
ManufacturerJ/BoatsPearson
Year1994–20081975–1982
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerRod JohnstoneWilliam Shaw
Dimensions
LOA10.52 m (34.5 ft)8.53 m (28.0 ft)
LWL8.97 m (29.4 ft)7.01 m (23.0 ft)
Beam3.28 m (10.8 ft)2.74 m (9.0 ft)
Draft1.98 m (6.5 ft)1.37 m (4.5 ft)
Weight
Displacement3,856 kg (8,501 lbs)2,948 kg (6,499 lbs)
Ballast1,678 kg (3,699 lbs)1,270 kg (2,800 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area57.6 m² (620 ft²)30.0 m² (323 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine15 HP10 HP
Fuel Capacity38 L (10.0 gal)38 L (10.0 gal)
Water Capacity57 L (15.1 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths65
Cabins21

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1994 J/105
23.80
1975 Pearson 28
14.83
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1994 J/105
43.52
1975 Pearson 28
43.08
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1994 J/105
0.84
1975 Pearson 28
0.77
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1994 J/105
13.68
1975 Pearson 28
21.23

Detailed Comparison

The 1994 J/105 and 1975 Pearson 28 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1994 J/105 is a 1990s design by J/Boats from USA, while the 1975 Pearson 28 is a 1970s offering from Pearson from USA. The 1994 J/105 was penned by Rod Johnstone. The 1975 Pearson 28 was designed by William Shaw.

In terms of size, the 1994 J/105 measures 10.52m (34.5ft) overall with a beam of 3.28m, compared to the 1975 Pearson 28 at 8.53m (28.0ft) with a 2.74m beam. The 1994 J/105 is 1.99m longer than the 1975 Pearson 28. The 1994 J/105 displaces approximately 31% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1994 J/105 has generous sail power for spirited sailing with an SA/D ratio of 23.80 and 57.6 m² of sail area. The 1975 Pearson 28, with an SA/D of 14.83 and 30.0 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The 1994 J/105 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 1994 J/105 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 13.7) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.84). The 1975 Pearson 28 has a comfort ratio of 21.2 and a capsize screening value of 0.77. The ballast ratios are 43.5% for the 1994 J/105 and 43.1% for the 1975 Pearson 28, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1994 J/105 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 57L of water capacity and 38L of fuel. The 1975 Pearson 28 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 57L water and 38L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1975 Pearson 28 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 1994 J/105 has the performance advantage with its superior SA/D ratio, meaning more sail power relative to its displacement for competitive sailing.

For liveaboard: The 1994 J/105 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: 1994 J/105 · 1975 Pearson 28