K4 vs Spitfire 2.3
How do the K4 and Spitfire 2.3 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
K4 | K4 | Spitfire 2.3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 14.8 ft4.51 m | 18.0 ft5.49 m |
| Waterline length | —— | —— |
| Beam | 7.3 ft2.21 m | 8.2 ft2.50 m |
| Draft | —— | —— |
| Displacement | 254 lb115 kg | 397 lb180 kg |
| Ballast | —— | —— |
| Sail area | 118 ft²11.0 m² | 180 ft²16.7 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 47.07 | 53.32 |
| Displacement / Length | — | — |
| Comfort ratio | — | — |
| Capsize screening | 4.58 | 4.46 |
| Hull speed (kn) | — | — |
K4 vs Spitfire 2.3: the short version
- The Spitfire 2.3 is the larger boat at 18.0 ft5.49 m LOA versus 14.8 ft4.51 m for the K4.
- The Spitfire 2.3 is heavier, displacing about 56% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Spitfire 2.3 carries the more powerful rig (53.3 vs 47.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- By the capsize screening formula the Spitfire 2.3 rates better for offshore work (4.46 vs 4.58).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.