Dufour 27 vs

[Johann10]

Hello there is a dufour 1975 27 in my area (Washington state) for sale at 8000$. The boat is in excellent condition. Rebuilt volvo md6a in 2012 surveyed in 2014 everything on the list was taken care of by a professional yard. I've heard that these boats were absolutely terrible sailers. And then I've heard that they were great in heavy weather. Good deal bad deal?

There are many catalina 30s in my area for 10,0000$ but all have atomics gas engines. And for 18 k ones with original diesels.

There is also a nice Santana 30 with a newer yanmar but it is in Canada. Not sure if it's easy to bring back from another country.

And an islander 28 with an original diesel. But it had been repainted and looks to be in good condition.

Some boats have better sails then others which can be replaced easily. but I'm worried about getting a boat with a bad motor which I understand can be a very expensive problem. A new motor installed could easily double the cost of the boat.

[letsgetsailing3]

Originally Posted by Johann10

Hello there is a dufour 1975 27 in my area (Washington state) for sale at 8000$. The boat is in excellent condition. Rebuilt volvo md6a in 2012 surveyed in 2014 everything on the list was taken care of by a professional yard. I've heard that these boats were absolutely terrible sailers. And then I've heard that they were great in heavy weather. Good deal bad deal?

There are many catalina 30s in my area for 10,0000$ but all have atomics gas engines. And for 18 k ones with original diesels.

Get the one YOU like. Seems like the Catalinas would be bigger, and easier to get parts for.

[avb3]

The older Dufours have a great reputation. If it is in great shape, then absolutely go for it. Don't forget, most parts you may need are similar with all sailboats.

It's great to hear that the Volvo is rebuilt. They are expensive to maintain, but if rebuilt, you have one heck of a step up on most.

I certainly would seriously look at it.

[Time2Go]

[QUOTE=Johann10;1740322]Hello there is a dufour 1975 27 in my area (Washington state) for sale at 8000$. The boat is in excellent condition. Rebuilt volvo md6a in 2012 surveyed in 2014 everything on the list was taken care of by a professional yard. I've heard that these boats were absolutely terrible sailers. And then I've heard that they were great in heavy weather. Good deal bad deal?

There are many catalina 30s in my area for 10,0000$ but all have atomics gas engines. And for 18 k ones with original diesels.

There is also a nice Santana 30 with a newer yanmar but it is in Canada. Not sure if it's easy to bring back from another country.

And an islander 28 with an original diesel. But it had been repainted and looks to be in good condition.

Some boats have better sails then others which can be replaced easily. but I'm worried about getting a boat with a bad motor which I understand can be a very expensive problem. A new motor installed couldeasily double the cost of the boat.[/QUOT

What is wrong with an Atomic 4 ?
Tens of thousands made and still in use
You just need a blower
They last forever
Check out
Moyer Marine, I think you can get an
Entire rebuilt engine for 6k
Had one on my Ericson 27

[boatman61]

Nothing wrong with Dufour's.. and that vintage it will have been built strong.. go for it.

[Johann10]

Thanks for your advice. I'm going to go take a look at the dufour on Saturday.

I'll take a look at a gas 30 catalina as well. They look like they have a lot more storage. My dad has a gas motor in his bartender. If that saves me half the cost of a good boat. Then that's a deal!

[Orion Jim]

Of the two the Catalina has more room and is the faster sailer. That being said I'd go with the Dufour based on the diesel alone.