Questions about a Leopard 44

[Flying Tiger]

It appears to me the Leopard 44 is the ideal boat for me. I really like the door to forward cockpit and the overhang protecting that front cockpit providing shade.
What year did they begin making the Leopard 44?
What years to avoid? (were there production problems certain years?)
Do the Leopard 44 have bulkhead issues?
I know it's one of the heavier cats that length but that is not a concern to me. I rather have a large living area (interior and exterior) vs trying to be the fastest boat on the water.

Thanks

[SV WELDER]

I don’t particularly see the appeal of the front lounge except maybe during a Mediterranean type docking where you might want a hang out spot that isn’t against a busy dock but at anchor it would seem like a too windy too sunny place. But, suppose best to have and not need than not have and want?

[MountainKing]

Originally Posted by SV WELDER

I don’t particularly see the appeal of the front lounge except maybe during a Mediterranean type docking where you might want a hang out spot that isn’t against a busy dock but at anchor it would seem like a too windy too sunny place. But, suppose best to have and not need than not have and want?

If you're in the Caribbean, where the wind is typically from the east, then it gives you a shaded area with a nice breeze to hang out in during the afternoon/evening when the rear cockpit, facing west, is getting blasted by the sun. Mostly of benefit if you're at anchor or on a mooring, though I suppose it's more choice for a shaded area if you're at a dock. At least one of the cockpits will hopefully be in shade. I see some of the appeal, certainly there are also trade-offs.