If you are handy and know the basics of boat repair and maintenance, the PD is a good choice. PD's don't come on the market often, and Catalinas are always available. So, if you want a boat with individuality and character, the chance to buy the PD may be a good opportunity. If you want a simple starter boat and don't care if your boat looks like all the others, perhaps the Catalina is a better choice.

As for sails, any sailmaker can make replacements either from plans they have on file or by supplying them the current sails.

The most significant things that are unique about the PD are the swing keel hanger inside the keel trunk, the winch for the keel, the scabbard for the rudder, and the rudder itself. If any of these need repair or replacement, it will hard to be find replacements and you'll need to find a capable fabricator to replace them. So make sure those are in good shape.

The overall construction of the PD in terms of fiberglass lay up, amount of glass fiber, deck core, etc is far superior to the Catalina. The displacement is much greater, too. In fact, there's no comparison in construction.

I hope this is timely enough and helps out. Let us know what you decide to do.