For a set condition, say
15 mph wind
250Lb load
no Spin
90 deg to wind

Which boat are generally faster? 1st , 2nd, 3rd?
N5.0, then H16, last Prindle 16?
Much difference?
Harry

The portsmouth ratings:
Hobie 16 --- 76
Nacra 5.0 ---77
Prndl 16 ----77.5

The lowest number is rated the fastest, as you can see there is very little difference in the boats, the sailor will make the difference.

15 mph works out to 4 on the Beaufort scale.

In these conditions, the ratings are slightly different.
Hobie 16 --- 74.1
Nacra 5.0 --- 76.2
Prindle 16 --- 76.3

http://www.ussailing.org/portsmouth/tables08/tables08mh.asp

The Hobie will be the quicker boat, but has to give up 6 seconds per mile. Depending on the water conditions, this handicap may or may not be justified. The Nacra and the Prindle are both higher volume hulls and will resist cartwheeling more than the Hobie. This allows you to push them harder than the Hobie in wavy conditions.

Hullflyer is right that the skill of the sailor is much more likely to determine which boat is faster. With equal skill, the handicaps say that the Hobie will win, but handicaps are not perfect.

Hullflyer and Rich are right. The sailor is the biggest factor.
When racing either my P16 or H16 in my club I place about the same (pre-handicap).
The skippers that beat me are more skilled sailors than I.

Thanks guys for the help!
Harry