1994 J/105 vs Hunter 260 — Comparison

1994 J/105
VS
Hunter 260Hunter 260

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1994 J/105Hunter 260
General
ManufacturerJ/BoatsHunter
Year1994–20081998–2004
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerRod JohnstoneGlenn Henderson
Dimensions
LOA10.52 m (34.5 ft)7.85 m (25.8 ft)
LWL8.97 m (29.4 ft)6.86 m (22.5 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)2,041 kg (4,500 lbs)
Ballast1,678 kg (3,699 lbs)771 kg (1,700 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area57.6 m² (620 ft²)27.5 m² (296 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
Hunter 260
17.37
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1994 J/105
43.52
Hunter 260
37.78
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1994 J/105
0.84
Hunter 260
0.87
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1994 J/105
13.68
Hunter 260
15.99

Detailed Comparison

The 1994 J/105 and Hunter 260 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1994 J/105 is a 1990s design by J/Boats from USA, while the Hunter 260 is a 1990s offering from Hunter from USA. The 1994 J/105 was penned by Rod Johnstone. The Hunter 260 was designed by Glenn Henderson.

In terms of size, the 1994 J/105 measures 10.52m (34.5ft) overall with a beam of 3.28m, compared to the Hunter 260 at 7.85m (25.8ft) with a 2.74m beam. The 1994 J/105 is 2.67m longer than the Hunter 260. The 1994 J/105 displaces approximately 89% 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 Hunter 260, with an SA/D of 17.37 and 27.5 m² of canvas, offers good sail power for versatile performance. 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 Hunter 260 has a comfort ratio of 16.0 and a capsize screening value of 0.87. The ballast ratios are 43.5% for the 1994 J/105 and 37.8% for the Hunter 260, 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 Hunter 260 offers 5 berths in 1 cabin with 57L water and 38L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The Hunter 260 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 · Hunter 260