The Beneteau First 42S7 1994 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 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 Swift Trawler 52 2013 measures 55,8 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 13,2 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 42S7 1994 at 42,6 feet (1994). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 42S7 1994 tips the scales at 18 739 lbs — 14 223 lbs more than the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2013 at 4 516 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 72 hp, the Beneteau First 42S7 1994 has a 70-hp advantage over the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 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 Swift Trawler 52 2013 carries 1 057 gallons versus 40 gallons in the Beneteau First 42S7 1994. 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 Swift Trawler 52 2013 is rated for 16 passengers, while the Beneteau First 42S7 1994 caps at 12. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2013 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 42S7 1994 has a documented displacement of 18 739 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau First 42S7 1994 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 42S7 1994 has a documented auxiliary engine of 72 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2013 carries 211 gallons versus 172 gallons on the Beneteau First 42S7 1994 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2013 at 55,8 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First 42S7 1994 at 42,6 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.