The Beneteau First 51 1986 vs Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 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 First 51 1986 measures 51,4 feet overall (1986), giving it roughly 7,2 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 at 44,3 feet (2013). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 51 1986 tips the scales at 28 660 lbs — 26 417 lbs more than the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 at 2 243 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 80 hp, the Beneteau First 51 1986 has a 78-hp advantage over the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 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 First 51 1986 carries 185 gallons versus 106 gallons in the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013. 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 First 51 1986 is rated for 15 passengers, while the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 caps at 13. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau First 51 1986 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 51 1986 has a documented displacement of 28 660 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau First 51 1986 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 51 1986 has a documented auxiliary engine of 80 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau First 51 1986 carries 74 gallons versus 2 gallons on the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau First 51 1986 at 51,4 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 at 44,3 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.