Catana 431 vs Catana 42

[Coops2]

I have the opportunity to purchase a 10+ year old Catana 431 or a virtually new Catana 42 for not a huge amount more. At first glance the newer boat seems the better deal but I have read much about the newer Catanas not being as good performance wise as the older ones, and I have read of the dramas with one particular model (the 401 I think) and some issues with after-sales service.
Without wishing to ignite debate about Catana vs other brands (helm position, dagger boards etc), can anyone compare the good and bad points of the 431 vs the 42, and also have the problems that affected the Catana brand a few years ago been rectified?

[Sand crab]

I've only been on a couple of Catanas that were stationary (sigh) but will say that the small problems they have had don't appear to have affected resale prices. In fact they seem to hold their value better than most. I wouldn't worry about it.

[Gary russell]

I have a catana 411 1998. If I can help you with any info let me know.

[mark_morwood]

There is a catana owners group on Yahoo called "CatanaCats" that you might want to ask the same question of. You'll probably get answers from owners of both 431s and 42s.

CatanaCats : Catana Catamaran Owners & wanta be's

Regards,
Mark.