2011 J/111 vs 1972 Ericson 32 — Comparison

2011 J/111
VS
1972 Ericson 321972 Ericson 32

Specifications Side by Side

Specification2011 J/1111972 Ericson 32
General
ManufacturerJ/BoatsEricson
Year20111972–1978
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerAlan JohnstoneBruce King
Dimensions
LOA11.13 m (36.5 ft)9.75 m (32.0 ft)
LWL9.75 m (32.0 ft)7.62 m (25.0 ft)
Beam3.40 m (11.2 ft)3.05 m (10.0 ft)
Draft2.20 m (7.2 ft)1.52 m (5.0 ft)
Weight
Displacement4,990 kg (11,001 lbs)4,309 kg (9,500 lbs)
Ballast2,041 kg (4,500 lbs)1,814 kg (3,999 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area71.0 m² (764 ft²)39.0 m² (420 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine22 HP15 HP
Fuel Capacity57 L (15.1 gal)57 L (15.1 gal)
Water Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)95 L (25.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
2011 J/111
24.71
1972 Ericson 32
14.97
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
2011 J/111
40.90
1972 Ericson 32
42.10
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
2011 J/111
0.80
1972 Ericson 32
0.75
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
2011 J/111
14.54
1972 Ericson 32
21.98

Detailed Comparison

The 2011 J/111 and 1972 Ericson 32 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 2011 J/111 is a modern design by J/Boats from USA, while the 1972 Ericson 32 is a 1970s offering from Ericson from USA. The 2011 J/111 was penned by Alan Johnstone. The 1972 Ericson 32 was designed by Bruce King.

In terms of size, the 2011 J/111 measures 11.13m (36.5ft) overall with a beam of 3.40m, compared to the 1972 Ericson 32 at 9.75m (32.0ft) with a 3.05m beam. The 2011 J/111 is 1.38m longer than the 1972 Ericson 32. The 2011 J/111 displaces approximately 16% more than its counterpart, which significantly affects how each boat handles in different sea states.

Looking at performance, the 2011 J/111 has generous sail power for spirited sailing with an SA/D ratio of 24.71 and 71.0 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 2011 J/111 has the edge in terms of raw sailing performance.

For comfort and safety, the 2011 J/111 offers a firm, racing-oriented motion (comfort ratio: 14.5) and excellent capsize resistance suitable for offshore voyaging (capsize ratio: 0.80). The 1972 Ericson 32 has a comfort ratio of 22.0 and a capsize screening value of 0.75. The ballast ratios are 40.9% for the 2011 J/111 and 42.1% for the 1972 Ericson 32, reflecting their respective approaches to stability.

Below deck, the 2011 J/111 provides 6 berths in 2 cabins with 76L of water capacity and 57L of fuel. The 1972 Ericson 32 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 95L water and 57L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1972 Ericson 32 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 2011 J/111 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: 2011 J/111 · 1972 Ericson 32