2011 J/111 vs 1983 Irwin 32 — Comparison

2011 J/111
VS
1983 Irwin 32

Specifications Side by Side

Specification2011 J/1111983 Irwin 32
General
ManufacturerJ/BoatsIrwin
Year20111983–1988
TypeSloopSloop
CountryUSAUSA
DesignerAlan JohnstoneTed Irwin
Dimensions
LOA11.13 m (36.5 ft)9.75 m (32.0 ft)
LWL9.75 m (32.0 ft)8.08 m (26.5 ft)
Beam3.40 m (11.2 ft)3.20 m (10.5 ft)
Draft2.20 m (7.2 ft)1.52 m (5.0 ft)
Weight
Displacement4,990 kg (11,001 lbs)4,990 kg (11,001 lbs)
Ballast2,041 kg (4,500 lbs)2,041 kg (4,500 lbs)
Sailing
Sail Area71.0 m² (764 ft²)41.0 m² (441 ft²)
Hull MaterialFiberglassFiberglass
Keel TypeFinFin
Engine & Tanks
Engine22 HP18 HP
Fuel Capacity57 L (15.1 gal)68 L (18.0 gal)
Water Capacity76 L (20.1 gal)114 L (30.1 gal)
Accommodation
Berths66
Cabins22

Performance Comparison

SA/D Ratio (Higher = more sail power per displacement)
2011 J/111
24.71
1983 Irwin 32
14.27
Ballast Ratio (Higher = more stability)
2011 J/111
40.90
1983 Irwin 32
40.90
Capsize Ratio (Lower = safer offshore)
2011 J/111
0.80
1983 Irwin 32
0.75
Comfort Ratio (Higher = gentler motion)
2011 J/111
14.54
1983 Irwin 32
22.12

Detailed Comparison

The 2011 J/111 and 1983 Irwin 32 represent two takes on sloop-rigged sailing. The 2011 J/111 is a modern design by J/Boats from USA, while the 1983 Irwin 32 is a 1980s offering from Irwin from USA. The 2011 J/111 was penned by Alan Johnstone. The 1983 Irwin 32 was designed by Ted Irwin.

In terms of size, the 2011 J/111 measures 11.13m (36.5ft) overall with a beam of 3.40m, compared to the 1983 Irwin 32 at 9.75m (32.0ft) with a 3.20m beam. The 2011 J/111 is 1.38m longer than the 1983 Irwin 32.

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 1983 Irwin 32, with an SA/D of 14.27 and 41.0 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 1983 Irwin 32 has a comfort ratio of 22.1 and a capsize screening value of 0.75. The ballast ratios are 40.9% for the 2011 J/111 and 40.9% for the 1983 Irwin 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 1983 Irwin 32 offers 6 berths in 2 cabins with 114L water and 68L fuel capacity.

Verdict

For cruising: The 1983 Irwin 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.

Compare Different Boats

Looking for a different matchup? Browse All Boats

Or view individual specs: 2011 J/111 · 1983 Irwin 32