I am thinking about buying a 1978 Columbia 9.6 priced at $9K. The
boat has a 13hp Volvo diesel that seems to run okay. Older main and
jib sail. No roller furling, or any other extras.

The other boat, a 1985 Catalina 30 is $21K, with a 21HP Universal.
Though I have never seen this specific boat, the owners have taken
great care of her.

Does anyone have experience with the Columbia 9.6? I would like to
know how it handles in the water. We are day sailers, and I plan to
use the boat to help teach my kids how to sail on weekends. The boat
will be used in Lake Erie.

Any information on the Columbia 9.6 and how it sails would be
appreciated. Thank-you.

R. Gray