The Beneteau Barracuda 9 2011 vs Beneteau R/C 30 1977 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 R/C 30 1977 at 29,5 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau R/C 30 1977 tips the scales at 8 995 lbs - 1 942 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 R/C 30 1977'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 R/C 30 1977. 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.
The Beneteau R/C 30 1977 has a documented displacement of 8 995 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau R/C 30 1977 has a documented auxiliary engine of 15 hp.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Barracuda 9 2011 and Beneteau R/C 30 1977 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.