What would competitors in the 1850s America's Cup think of today's racing yachts?
Short answerThey would envy the light hulls and speed, since the early competitors were already committed to making their yachts as fast as possible.
NotesEarly America's Cup competitors are described as speed enthusiasts who would envy the light hulls and performance of modern racing yachts. They would want the newer boats because they already shared the same pursuit of speed.