We have one of the cross over versions with the new cockpit and old style galley. It's an -83 hull #452, as far as I know less than 10 of these where built in 1983.
If you do any sailing with kids I would not consider the old style cockpit other than that it is not that important.
If you have any kind of socializing in the cockpit during racing - you have a much bigger problem.
If you compare two DRY boats without too much "junk" bolted on, let's say 1981 versus 1985 the older boat will be a few 100# lighter. The most important issue is still to find a solid and DRY boat.
