The Beneteau Barracuda 9 2011 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 Barracuda 9 2011 at 28,8 ft versus Beneteau First 30E 1981 at 31,1 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 30E 1981 tips the scales at 8 929 lbs — 1 876 lbs less than the Beneteau Barracuda 9 2011 at 7 053 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 400 hp, the Beneteau Barracuda 9 2011 has a 385-hp advantage over the Beneteau First 30E 1981's 15-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 Barracuda 9 2011 carries 106 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.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau First 30E 1981 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Beneteau Barracuda 9 2011 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau First 30E 1981 could be the deciding factor.
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.
The Beneteau First 30E 1981 has a documented auxiliary engine of 15 hp.
Bottom line: The Beneteau First 30E 1981 at 31,1 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Barracuda 9 2011 at 28,8 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.