The Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014 vs Beneteau Oceanis 390 1987 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014 at 37,7 ft versus Beneteau Oceanis 390 1987 at 38,2 ft. At 14 363 lbs and 14 330 lbs respectively, both sit in a similar weight class — either should pair comfortably with most mid-size SUVs and half-ton trucks, though always confirm your specific tow rating with the motor added.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 50 hp, the Beneteau Oceanis 390 1987 has a 21-hp advantage over the Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014's 29-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 Oceanis 390 1987 carries 46 gallons versus 34 gallons in the Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 11 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket — 14 363 lbs for the Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014 and 14 330 lbs for the Beneteau Oceanis 390 1987. Comparable displacement means broadly similar seakeeping behaviour and load capacity, though hull form and ballast ratio will still produce noticeably different sailing characteristics.
Both boats draw a similar depth — 6,2 ft and 5,5 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.
For auxiliary power the Beneteau Oceanis 390 1987 carries a 50-hp engine against 29 hp on the Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014. Motoring range and ability to punch through a foul current or enter a tight marina under power will favour the more powerful installation.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Oceanis 390 1987 carries 169 gallons versus 91 gallons on the Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Oceanis 37 2014 and Beneteau Oceanis 390 1987 are closely matched on paper. A sea trial on both in representative conditions is the only reliable way to find which one suits your sailing style, home port, and intended cruising ground.