The hull shapes are different, of course.

Also, I believe the original Taipan 4.9 is about 5 inches narrower than the Blade. But that would not be a problem with your weight. And you probably will be sailing in light air most of the time anyway in your area. So a slightly narrower boat might be more fun -- able to fly a hull in less wind. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Google "Taipan 4.9 catamaran" to find more information about the boat from various sources, including an owner who has an interesting web site about his boat that he named "Taipanic."