The Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 vs Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 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 Gran Turismo 44 2013 measures 44,3 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 5,2 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 at 39,1 feet (1997). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 tips the scales at 22 430 lbs - 6 429 lbs more than the Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 at 16 001 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 Oceanis 400 1997 has a 48-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 Gran Turismo 44 2013 carries 106 gallons versus 40 gallons in the Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997. 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 Gran Turismo 44 2013 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 caps at 11. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 has a documented displacement of 16 001 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 has a documented auxiliary engine of 50 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 carries 140 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 Gran Turismo 44 2013 at 44,3 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Oceanis 400 1997 at 39,1 ft is the easier, lower-cost option - simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.