The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 vs Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 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 Evasion 32 1973 measures 31,1 feet overall (1973), giving it roughly 17,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 at 14,1 feet (2017). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 tips the scales at 22 287 lbs - 9 610 lbs less than the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 at 12 677 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 32 1973 carries a rated maximum of 55 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 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 Evasion 32 1973 is rated for 9 passengers, while the Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 caps at 4. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 could be the deciding factor.
Displacement is where these two sailboats genuinely part ways. The Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 displaces 22 287 lbs - a 9 610-lb difference over the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 at 12 677 lbs. That gap separates two entirely different categories of sailing: the heavier boat is built for offshore passage-making and load-carrying, while the lighter hull rewards performance sailing and easier handling in lighter air.
Both boats draw a similar depth - 4,7 ft and 4,0 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.
The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 uses Masthead-sloop rigging. The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 has a documented auxiliary engine of 55 hp.
The Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 is trailerable - a genuine advantage for sailors who prefer to keep their boat at home or explore multiple sailing venues.
Bottom line: The Beneteau First 14 SE 2017 is the offshore and bluewater choice - at 22 287 lbs displacement and 14 ft it has the load capacity, range, and seakeeping for extended passages. The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 at 12 677 lbs is the more nimble, accessible option - easier to single-hand and better suited to coastal and inland sailing.