The Beneteau First 32S5 1989 vs Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994 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 First 32S5 1989 at 32,6 ft versus Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994 at 34,8 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994 tips the scales at 11 684 lbs — 440 lbs less than the Beneteau First 32S5 1989 at 11 244 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 First 32S5 1989 carries a rated maximum of 28 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994 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 Oceanis 351 1994 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Beneteau First 32S5 1989 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994 could be the deciding factor.
Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket — 11 244 lbs for the Beneteau First 32S5 1989 and 11 684 lbs for the Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994. Comparable displacement means broadly similar seakeeping behaviour and load capacity, though hull form and ballast ratio will still produce noticeably different sailing characteristics.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau First 32S5 1989 draws 5,7 ft, compared to 4,0 ft for the Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994. That 1,7-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 First 32S5 1989 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 32S5 1989 has a documented auxiliary engine of 28 hp.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Oceanis 351 1994 at 34,8 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First 32S5 1989 at 32,6 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.