Boats
There is an Ericson 27 in the marina next to me - boy does it have SWEET lines. Nice triangular transom. No joke. Of course, that's all I know about it - but its one good looking boat. I would certainly investigate it. Owning a 1979 C-27 - I can tell you that support and parts are easy to obtain. This website alone is a serious benefit (kudos to those who maintain it) that will help you if you choose the C-27. Older 27's will should get the chainplates and spreader brackets replaced, for sure. Rigging is also a sore spot, and needs close inspection. Individual boats will have their own achilles heels, but a good survey will tell you what to look out for. I would lean toward the 80 since it is newer, but I have seen 75's that are in better shape than 80's models. It all depends on the individual boat, and, more importantly, its owner. Remeber, upgrades like instruments are easy - replacing something like a deck is not. As for engines, don't worry about inboards or outboards. The most important thing to look at is the overall condition of the engine - regardless of type. Has it been taken care of? Is there a maintenance log? Does it fire quickly and surely, every time? I have an Atomic 4 inboard, and it is a wonderful engine - but they can be less than ideal if not properly taken care of. The same can be said of a deisel or outboard, for that matter (though outboards are cheaper to swap). Deisel replacements are the most costly, with an A-4 rebuild costing about half to a quarter of that, and a new 9.9 hp motor will run around 2 grand or so. Hope that helps, and let us know what you find, and what you decide. Best Regards, Rob
