The Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 vs Beneteau First 22 1978 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 Figaro 3 2019 measures 36,0 feet overall (2019), giving it roughly 13,9 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 22 1978 at 22,1 feet (1978). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 tips the scales at 7 000 lbs — 3 054 lbs more than the Beneteau First 22 1978 at 3 946 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 24 hp for the Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 and 10 hp for the Beneteau First 22 1978. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Beneteau First 22 1978 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 could be the deciding factor.

Displacement is where these two sailboats genuinely part ways. The Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 displaces 7 000 lbs — a 3 054-lb difference over the Beneteau First 22 1978 at 3 946 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.

Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 draws 8,2 ft, compared to 3,6 ft for the Beneteau First 22 1978. That 4,6-foot difference affects which anchorages you can access, which haul-out facilities will take you, and how carefully you need to read the tide tables in shallower cruising grounds.

The Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 uses Sloop rigging. For auxiliary power the Beneteau Figaro 3 2019 carries a 24-hp engine against 10 hp on the Beneteau First 22 1978. Motoring range and ability to punch through a foul current or enter a tight marina under power will favour the more powerful installation.

The Beneteau First 22 1978 is trailerable — a genuine advantage for sailors who prefer to keep their boat at home or explore multiple sailing venues.