Just my two cents-I have the new style cockpit, and both some of my crew and I have sailed on the old version, and all agree (including trimmers)that the new style cockpit is better. More places to brace feet when trimming, easier to "lock in" to a hiking position outside the coaming, not to mention more secure for cruising. The galley layout below is also a big improvement.
That said, Bob is right that the cost differential and availability of the older models makes the choice a bit harder.
As far as red flags-the main cabin bulkhead will often show signs of water damage around the chainplates. This is an almost universal issue with these boats, although the main cabin wood is only a cosmetic finish-the structural part of the bulkhead is on the forward side. It is not uncommon to have some water damage in the finished wood, but have the structural bulkhead be in fine shape.
The engine is critical-mine looked lousy when I bought the boat, but subsequent maintenance has revealed the inner workings to be fine.
As far as boats for sale-this site probably has some of the most interesting listings. Fuzzy Wuzzy-two time NA champ, perfectly set up and maintained, new style cockpit with old style cabin-is a very nice boat.
