Long-term estimates helped fund the fleet but also slowed design change, as the path from Princesa to the British 74s demonstrates. Cape St Vincent then makes the 74's value visible in battle terms. Eight British 74s formed more than half of the fifteen ships of the line, alongside two first rates, four second rates, and one other third rate. The opposing Spanish fleet was substantially larger and also brought frigates and smaller supporting vessels. Britain nevertheless captured four ships while suffering far fewer dead and wounded and taking roughly 3,000 prisoners. The result makes the third rate's combination of affordability, numbers, and battle-line power concrete.
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The third-rate balance at Cape St Vincent
Eight 74-gun ships formed the majority of Britain's battle line at Cape St Vincent and helped defeat a much larger Spanish force.