1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 vs 1980 Contest 33 — Comparison
1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34
1980 Contest 33
Specifications Side by Side
| Specification | 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 | 1980 Contest 33 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Manufacturer | Hallberg-Rassy | Contest |
| Year | 1997–2007 | 1980–1990 |
| Type | Sloop | Sloop |
| Country | Sweden | Netherlands |
| Designer | German Frers | Dick Zaal |
| Dimensions | ||
| LOA | 10.35 m (34.0 ft) | 10.06 m (33.0 ft) |
| LWL | 8.85 m (29.0 ft) | 8.23 m (27.0 ft) |
| Beam | 3.34 m (11.0 ft) | 3.20 m (10.5 ft) |
| Draft | 1.70 m (5.6 ft) | 1.60 m (5.2 ft) |
| Weight | ||
| Displacement | 5,800 kg (12,787 lbs) | 5,200 kg (11,464 lbs) |
| Ballast | 2,400 kg (5,291 lbs) | 2,100 kg (4,630 lbs) |
| Sailing | ||
| Sail Area | 53.0 m² (571 ft²) | 44.0 m² (474 ft²) |
| Hull Material | Fiberglass | Steel |
| Keel Type | Fin | Fin |
| Engine & Tanks | ||
| Engine | 28 HP | 22 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 120 L (31.7 gal) | 100 L (26.4 gal) |
| Water Capacity | 200 L (52.8 gal) | 200 L (52.8 gal) |
| Accommodation | ||
| Berths | 6 | 6 |
| Cabins | 2 | 2 |
Performance Comparison
Detailed Comparison
The 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 and 1980 Contest 33 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 is a 1990s design by Hallberg-Rassy from Sweden, while the 1980 Contest 33 is a 1980s offering from Contest from Netherlands. The 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 was penned by German Frers. The 1980 Contest 33 was designed by Dick Zaal.
In terms of size, the 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 measures 10.35m (34.0ft) overall with a beam of 3.34m, compared to the 1980 Contest 33 at 10.06m (33.0ft) with a 3.20m beam. The 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 is 0.29m longer than the 1980 Contest 33. The 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 displaces approximately 12% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.
Looking at performance, the 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 has moderate sail power suitable for relaxed cruising with an SA/D ratio of 16.68 and 53.0 m² of sail area. The 1980 Contest 33, with an SA/D of 14.90 and 44.0 m² of canvas, offers modest sail power for its displacement. The 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.
For comfort and safety, the 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 offers a moderate motion comfort level (comfort ratio: 20.7) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.74). The 1980 Contest 33 has a comfort ratio of 22.0 and a capsize screening value of 0.74. The ballast ratios are 41.4% for the 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 and 40.4% for the 1980 Contest 33, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.
Below deck, the 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 200L of water capacity and 120L of fuel. The 1980 Contest 33 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 200L water and 100L fuel capacity.
Verdict
For cruising: The 1980 Contest 33 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 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 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: 1997 Hallberg-Rassy 34 · 1980 Contest 33