1987 Post 46’ Sporty vs 1972 Hatteras 42”

What same engines? Clutches and propellers?
What does "updated" include?
No crystal balls here. Need more info if you want help in comparing these fine hulls.
I automatically would lean to the Post. Great Post group here on YF and they luv their boats.

The Post is comfortable trolling and holding on station for bottom fishing and should be faster and more efficient than the Hatteras but the Hatteras will give you a better ride in a rough sea. I've spent many days and nights on a 46 a few years newer than the one you mention and have never been scared in a following sea. You learn to work with what you have if you like the boat.

I'm not going to give that 1972, 42' Hatterass a lot of high-tech bottom design, for a better ride.
IMO, solid and super heavy glass schedule kept the hull wet and slow.

Both of the boats in question when new were likely powered with 671 diesels producing 350 to maybe 485 hp. Twin 600 hp Cummins adds considerably more horsepower. You should run each boat at WOT throttle for several minutes and discern any performance peculiarities. . I ran a 42 Hatt with 671 and it was slow by today's standards; many Posts in 42 and 46 configurations. The 46 with 450 hp 671s topped out at 29 knots.

I don't think the 6-71 TIB was available in the early '70s.
Probably the Cummins VM & VTs were available for the 1972 Hatt when new.
I'm sure the 1987 Post did have the 6-71 TIB available.

I don't want to bash old boats, Our Bert is 47 years old now (1978), but technology and hull design came around drastically in 25 years since '72.
This thought alone would make me pass on the Hatt.

IMO, I'd rather push a real fish boat vs an antique, museum prototype anyway.
Go for the Post.

Post Kids are Cool.

Wow - the market has softened/collapsed that much?

Actually, the owner is the only thing that always works on an old boat.

Payback, I have 91 46' Post w/692TA's, while you have to learn how to handle the Post in a following sea, it's not that terrible if you operate within conditions your presented with. Also the age difference alone between the two you've identified would direct me to the Post. Considering the build quality improvements accomplished in the 15 years difference of the two, again would direct me towards the Post. Good luck in making your choice.