The Beneteau First 45F5 1990 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 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.
The Beneteau First 45F5 1990 carries a rated maximum of 50 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 carries 1 057 gallons versus 42 gallons in the Beneteau First 45F5 1990. 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 2008 is rated for 16 passengers, while the Beneteau First 45F5 1990 caps at 14. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 45F5 1990 has a documented displacement of 23 149 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau First 45F5 1990 draws 7,1 ft, compared to 4,0 ft for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008. That 3,1-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 45F5 1990 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 45F5 1990 has a documented auxiliary engine of 50 hp.
Hull speed is rated at 23,0 knots for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 and 8,1 knots for the Beneteau First 45F5 1990. For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 carries 264 gallons versus 172 gallons on the Beneteau First 45F5 1990 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 at 55,0 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First 45F5 1990 at 46,7 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.