The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 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 34S 2011 measures 36,6 feet overall (2011), giving it roughly 5,5 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 at 31,1 feet (1973). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 tips the scales at 16 030 lbs - 3 353 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 power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 425 hp, the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 has a 370-hp advantage over the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973's 55-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 Swift Trawler 34S 2011 carries 211 gallons versus 32 gallons in the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973. 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 Swift Trawler 34S 2011 is rated for 11 passengers, while the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 has a documented displacement of 12 677 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 uses Masthead-sloop rigging. The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 has a documented auxiliary engine of 55 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 carries 85 gallons versus 53 gallons on the Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 - a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 at 36,6 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Evasion 32 1973 at 31,1 ft is the easier, lower-cost option - simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.