The Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 vs Beneteau First 285 1987 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 at 29,3 ft versus Beneteau First 285 1987 at 28,1 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 tips the scales at 8 155 lbs — 2 754 lbs more than the Beneteau First 285 1987 at 5 401 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 300 hp, the Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 has a 282-hp advantage over the Beneteau First 285 1987's 18-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 carries 106 gallons versus 7 gallons in the Beneteau First 285 1987. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 8 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Displacement is where these two sailboats genuinely part ways. The Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 displaces 8 155 lbs — a 2 754-lb difference over the Beneteau First 285 1987 at 5 401 lbs. That gap separates two entirely different categories of sailing: the heavier boat is built for offshore passage-making and load-carrying, while the lighter hull rewards performance sailing and easier handling in lighter air.
For auxiliary power the Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 carries a 300-hp engine against 18 hp on the Beneteau First 285 1987. Motoring range and ability to punch through a foul current or enter a tight marina under power will favour the more powerful installation.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Antares 8.80 2011 is the offshore and bluewater choice — at 8 155 lbs displacement and 29 ft it has the load capacity, range, and seakeeping for extended passages. The Beneteau First 285 1987 at 5 401 lbs is the more nimble, accessible option — easier to single-hand and better suited to coastal and inland sailing.