The Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 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 Swift Trawler 42 2008 measures 44,0 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 21,9 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 at 22,1 feet (1980). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 tips the scales at 3 968 lbs — 3 946 lbs more than the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 at 22 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 Evasion 22 1980 carries a rated maximum of 25 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 has a documented displacement of 3 968 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Both boats draw a similar depth — 3,4 ft and 3,0 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.
The Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 has a documented auxiliary engine of 25 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 carries 169 gallons versus 13 gallons on the Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 at 44,0 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Evasion 22 1980 at 22,1 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.