The Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 vs Beneteau Idylle 10.50 1985 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 Idylle 10.50 1985 at 34,5 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 tips the scales at 11 762 lbs — 1 621 lbs more than the Beneteau Idylle 10.50 1985 at 10 141 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 Idylle 10.50 1985 tops out at 28 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 24 gallons in the Beneteau Idylle 10.50 1985. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Idylle 10.50 1985 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Idylle 10.50 1985 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau Idylle 10.50 1985 has a documented displacement of 10 141 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 Idylle 10.50 1985 draws 4,1 ft, compared to 2,0 ft for the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008. That 2,1-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 Idylle 10.50 1985 has a documented auxiliary engine of 28 hp.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Idylle 10.50 1985 at 34,5 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 at 32,0 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.