The Beneteau First 345 1983 vs Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 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 Gran Turismo 38 2013 measures 39,7 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 3,6 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 345 1983 at 36,1 feet (1983). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 tips the scales at 16 199 lbs — 4 955 lbs less than the Beneteau First 345 1983 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.

Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 18 hp for the Beneteau First 345 1983 and 2 hp for the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013. 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. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 carries 172 gallons versus 23 gallons in the Beneteau First 345 1983. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 11 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.

The Beneteau First 345 1983 has a documented displacement of 11 244 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.

The Beneteau First 345 1983 uses fractional_rig_sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 345 1983 has a documented auxiliary engine of 18 hp.

For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau First 345 1983 carries 106 gallons versus 53 gallons on the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.