Contest 42 vs HR 38
Dutch premium build versus Swedish centre-cockpit pedigree: Contest 42's performance bias against Hallberg-Rassy HR 38's Baltic resale pool. Side-by-side specs from published model data.
Comparison table
| Category | Contest 42 | HR 38 |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 12.6 m | 11.68 m |
| Beam | 3.9 m | 3.6 m |
| Production years | 2003–2009 | 1977–1982 |
| Overview | The Contest 42 is one of Northern Europe's most recognisable production sailboats. Designed by Judel/Vrolijk / Contest and built from 2003 to 2009, roughly ~120 hulls left the yard — Dutch semi-custom 42-footer. With 12.6 m LOA, 3.9 m beam, and about 7,308 kg displacement, the m… | The HR 38 is one of Northern Europe's most recognisable production sailboats. Designed by Olle Enderlein for Hallberg-Rassy and built from 1977 to 1982, roughly 250 hulls left the yard — a classic Enderlein blue-water cruiser before the Frers era scaled the range. With 11.68 m L… |
| Typical issues | Q: What standing rigging fatigue issues appear on Contest 42? A: Unknown rigging age is common on Contest 42; budget replacement if invoices are missing. Q: What chainplate leaks issues appear on Contest 42? A: Chainplate bedding failures often show as ceiling stains — moisture mapping before purchase. Q: What deck core moisture issues appear on Contest 42? A: Stanchion bases and tracks concentra… | Q: What osmotic blistering issues appear on HR 38? A: Older HR GRP may show osmosis; barrier-coat history should be documented. Q: What chainplate leak issues appear on HR 38? A: Chainplate backing pads need internal inspection for laminate softness. Q: What iron keel corrosion issues appear on HR 38? A: Iron ballast encapsulation should be verified with moisture readings. Q: What standing riggin… |