The Beneteau First Class 10 1987 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2009 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.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2009 is rated for 16 passengers, while the Beneteau First Class 10 1987 caps at 10. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2009 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First Class 10 1987 has a documented displacement of 6 900 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 Class 10 1987 draws 5,8 ft, compared to 4,0 ft for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2009. That 1,8-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 Class 10 1987 uses Fractional Sloop rigging.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2009 at 55,8 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First Class 10 1987 at 34,3 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.