I'm not sure how much the A-Class cats have "evolved" over the past 40 years. Yes, they are lighter now, and they have taken advantage of all the new materials and rigging, just as most boats have. Different hull designs become popular at different times. But aside from that, they are pretty much the same boat as back in the 1960's. And I think that is the best thing about the class.

If people want to experiment with new concepts, maybe the Formula 14 class would be the place to do that, because it seems to be pretty wide open.

P.S. In response to Wouter, I don't think the A-Class sailors care whether they are the fastest boat on the water, because they usually race in class, just like one-designs.