The Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 vs Beneteau Oceanis 36 CC 1996 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.

Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Beneteau Oceanis 36 CC 1996 measures 36,5 feet overall (1996), giving it roughly 4,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 at 32,0 feet (2008). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Oceanis 36 CC 1996 tips the scales at 12 125 lbs — 363 lbs less than the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 at 11 762 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 Oceanis 36 CC 1996 tops out at 40 hp. Engine specs for the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Oceanis 36 CC 1996 is rated for 11 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 Oceanis 36 CC 1996 could be the deciding factor.

The Beneteau Oceanis 36 CC 1996 has a documented displacement of 12 125 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 Oceanis 36 CC 1996 draws 5,0 ft, compared to 2,0 ft for the Beneteau Antares 9.80 2008. That 3,0-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 Oceanis 36 CC 1996 has a documented auxiliary engine of 40 hp.