The Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 vs Beneteau First 30E 1981 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 9.80 2008 at 32,0 ft versus Beneteau First 30E 1981 at 31,1 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 tips the scales at 11 762 lbs - 2 833 lbs more than the Beneteau First 30E 1981 at 8 929 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 Beneteau First 30E 1981 tops out at 15 hp. Engine specs for the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 aren't listed - confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 carries 169 gallons versus 8 gallons in the Beneteau First 30E 1981. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 9 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.
The Beneteau First 30E 1981 has a documented displacement of 8 929 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau First 30E 1981 draws 5,1 ft, compared to 2,0 ft for the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008. That 3,1-foot difference affects which anchorages you can access, which haul-out facilities will take you, and how carefully you need to read the tide tables in shallower cruising grounds.
The Beneteau First 30E 1981 has a documented auxiliary engine of 15 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 carries 58 gallons versus 26 gallons on the Beneteau First 30E 1981 - a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 and Beneteau First 30E 1981 are closely matched on paper. A sea trial on both in representative conditions is the only reliable way to find which one suits your sailing style, home port, and intended cruising ground.