Chrysler 27 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Chrysler 27 is characterized by its significant initial stability and predictable tracking. With a displacement of approximately 4,950 pounds and nearly 2,000 pounds of ballast, the boat possesses a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 39%. This makes the vessel remarkably "stiff," allowing it to carry full sail longer than lighter competitors when the wind freshens. According to technical specifications maintained by the Chrysler Sailing Association, the boat features a fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, a combination that provides responsive steering and a relatively tight turning radius.

While the hull is a Halsey Herreshoff design optimized for coastal cruising, it is not a dedicated light-air racer. The generous beam, while excellent for stability, creates more wetted surface area, which can hinder performance in very light winds. However, in a moderate breeze, the Chrysler 27 finds its stride, exhibiting the "sea-kindliness" often cited by owners in historical reviews. It tracks well upwind thanks to the deep fin keel, and the T-shaped cockpit is ergonomically designed to allow the helmsman a clear view of the telltales while remaining comfortably braced.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Chrysler 27 was a major selling point during its production run, primarily due to its 6' 1" standing headroom and the expansive feel created by the 9-foot beam. The layout is a classic "main cabin" configuration: a V-berth forward, a private head compartment (often featuring a vanity and hanging locker), and a main salon with a convertible dinette. Chrysler utilized a molded fiberglass headliner and extensive teak trim to balance a modern, easy-to-clean aesthetic with traditional yacht styling.

The model saw several minor iterations during its short production window between 1978 and 1980. While the hull remained consistent, variations in the galley arrangement and the transition from the original Chrysler-branded "Sailer" outboard options to various inboard diesel or gasoline engines occurred. The Chrysler 27 shares design DNA with its smaller sibling, the Chrysler 22—also a Herreshoff design—and the Chrysler 26. However, it is important to note that while the 22 and 27 were Herreshoff designs, the Chrysler 26 was a separate design lineage, often distinguished by its more utilitarian lines and different handling characteristics.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Chrysler 27 should focus their inspection on several areas common to fiberglass boats of this era, as well as specific Chrysler-related quirks:

• Spade Rudder Integrity: The foam-filled spade rudder is prone to water ingress over decades. If the rudder feels excessively heavy or shows "weeping" of rusty water when hauled out, the internal steel structure may be corroded.
• Chainplate Leaks: Like many mass-produced boats from the 1970s, the chainplates are known to leak if the sealant is not maintained. This can lead to rot in the plywood bulkheads to which the chainplates are bolted, compromising the rig's structural integrity.
• Deck Delamination: The Chrysler 27 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Soft spots around the mast step or near stanchion bases are indicators of core rot, a labor-intensive repair.
• Compression Post: Ensure the mast compression post—which transfers the load of the deck-stepped mast to the keel—is solid and shows no signs of sinking into the cabin sole or deformation at the top.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Chrysler Sailing Association, which maintains an archive of original brochures, parts lists, and owner manuals. This community is vital for sourcing information on the specific hardware used by Chrysler Marine, as many of these components were proprietary or sourced from now-defunct suppliers.

The Verdict

The Chrysler 27 is an overlooked classic that offers a "big boat" experience in a manageable 27-foot package. It remains an excellent choice for coastal cruisers who prioritize stability and interior volume over high-speed racing performance.

Pros:

• Exceptional 6' 1" headroom and wide beam for its class.
• Stiff, stable sailing characteristics due to a high ballast ratio.
• A legitimate Halsey Herreshoff design with proven hull lines.
• T-shaped cockpit provides superior ergonomics for the helmsman.

Cons:

• Wide beam makes the boat difficult and expensive to transport over land.
• Aging balsa-cored decks require careful moisture inspection.
• Proprietary parts from the Chrysler Marine era can be difficult to replace with off-the-shelf modern equivalents.