The Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 vs Beneteau R/C 42 1981 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 R/C 42 1981 measures 43,4 feet overall (1981), giving it roughly 3,7 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 at 39,7 feet (2012). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau R/C 42 1981 tips the scales at 22 377 lbs — 5 913 lbs less than the Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 at 16 464 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 50 hp, the Beneteau R/C 42 1981 has a 48-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 40 gallons in the Beneteau R/C 42 1981. 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 R/C 42 1981 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 caps at 12. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau R/C 42 1981 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau R/C 42 1981 has a documented displacement of 22 377 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau R/C 42 1981 has a documented auxiliary engine of 50 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau R/C 42 1981 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.
Bottom line: The Beneteau R/C 42 1981 at 43,4 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Flyer Gran Turismo 38 2012 at 39,7 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.