The Beneteau First 35.7 1992 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 4,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 35.7 1992 at 35,7 feet (1992). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 tips the scales at 16 199 lbs — 4 515 lbs less than the Beneteau First 35.7 1992 at 11 684 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 28 hp, the Beneteau First 35.7 1992 has a 26-hp advantage over the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013's 2-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 Gran Turismo 38 2013 carries 172 gallons versus 24 gallons in the Beneteau First 35.7 1992. 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 Gran Turismo 38 2013 is rated for 11 passengers, while the Beneteau First 35.7 1992 caps at 10. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 35.7 1992 has a documented displacement of 11 684 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau First 35.7 1992 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 35.7 1992 has a documented auxiliary engine of 28 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau First 35.7 1992 carries 79 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.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 at 39,7 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First 35.7 1992 at 35,7 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.