1994 Najad 343 vs 2010 Elan 340 — Comparison

1994 Najad 343
VS
2010 Elan 3402010 Elan 340

Specifications Side by Side

Specification1994 Najad 3432010 Elan 340
General
ManufacturerNajadElan
Year1994–20042010–2014
TypeSloopSloop
CountrySwedenSlovenia
DesignerJudel/VrolijkRob Humphreys
Dimensions
LOA10.36 m (34.0 ft)10.36 m (34.0 ft)
LWL8.69 m (28.5 ft)9.00 m (29.5 ft)
Beam3.25 m (10.7 ft)3.40 m (11.2 ft)
Draft1.70 m (5.6 ft)1.95 m (6.4 ft)
Weight
Displacement5,400 kg (11,905 lbs)5,800 kg (12,787 lbs)
Ballast2,200 kg (4,850 lbs)1,750 kg (3,858 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area47.5 m² (511 ft²)55.0 m² (592 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine28 HP21 HP
Fuel Capacity100 L (26.4 gal)80 L (21.1 gal)
Water Capacity170 L (44.9 gal)160 L (42.3 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
1994 Najad 343
15.68
2010 Elan 340
17.31
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
1994 Najad 343
40.74
2010 Elan 340
30.17
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
1994 Najad 343
0.74
2010 Elan 340
0.76
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
1994 Najad 343
20.44
2010 Elan 340
19.73

Detailed Comparison

The 1994 Najad 343 and 2010 Elan 340 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1994 Najad 343 is a 1990s design by Najad from Sweden, while the 2010 Elan 340 is a modern offering from Elan from Slovenia. The 1994 Najad 343 was penned by Judel/Vrolijk. The 2010 Elan 340 was designed by Rob Humphreys.

In terms of size, the 1994 Najad 343 measures 10.36m (34.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.25m, compared to the 2010 Elan 340 at 10.36m (34.0ft) with a 3.40m beam. The 2010 Elan 340 displaces approximately 7% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 1994 Najad 343 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 15.68 and 47.5 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 1994 Najad 343 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 20.4) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.74). The 2010 Elan 340 has a comfort ratio of 19.7 and a capsize screening value of 0.76. The ballast ratios are 40.7% for the 1994 Najad 343 and 30.2% for the 2010 Elan 340, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 1994 Najad 343 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 170L of water capacity and 100L of fuel. The 2010 Elan 340 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 160L water and 80L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1994 Najad 343 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: Both boats provide similar accommodation, making either a viable choice for living aboard. Consider water and fuel capacity for extended stays away from marinas.

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Or view individual specs: 1994 Najad 343 · 2010 Elan 340