FORD 20
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 20 ft |
| LWL | 18.5 ft |
| Beam | 7 ft |
| Draft | 5 ft/ 0.67 ft min |
| Displacement | 950 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 5.8 kn |
About the FORD 20
Shown in a 1969 MFG brochure. At this date MFG Sailboats offered 5 different models and the FORD 20 was the largest.
The Ford 20 is a lightweight, fractional sloop designed by F. S. Ford and built by Anchor Reinforced Plastics/MFG Boats in 1969. With a displacement of 950.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 5.8, this vessel represents a specific era of small, performance-oriented trailerable cruisers.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal day-sailors and trailerable cruisers who prioritize ease of transport and handling over heavy offshore comfort. Its light displacement and fractional rig make it ideal for single-handers or couples seeking a manageable, responsive package for protected waters.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 950.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.85, the Ford 20 is not suited for serious bluewater cruising due to its light weight and lack of heavy seakeeping characteristics.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include other 1960s-70s trailerable fractionals like the O'Day 20 or Pearson 20, which share similar fractional rigs and trailerable footprints. These vessels are comparable due to their shared role as accessible, light-displacement entry-level cruisers from the same production era.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the FORD 20 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 20ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
9 reported issues across 6 systems for the FORD 20, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FORD 20? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 9 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your FORD 20?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Atomic 4, Perkins — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the FORD 20
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…