The Beneteau First 38 1982 vs Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 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 38 1982 at 40,2 ft versus Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 at 39,7 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 tips the scales at 16 464 lbs — 811 lbs less than the Beneteau First 38 1982 at 15 653 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 60 hp, the Beneteau First 38 1982 has a 58-hp advantage over the Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012'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 Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 carries 172 gallons versus 34 gallons in the Beneteau First 38 1982. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.

Both boats are rated for 12 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 38 1982 has a documented displacement of 15 653 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.

The Beneteau First 38 1982 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 38 1982 has a documented auxiliary engine of 60 hp.

For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau First 38 1982 carries 106 gallons versus 53 gallons on the Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.