The Beneteau R/C 32 1980 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Beneteau R/C 32 1980 at 33,1 ft versus Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2013 at 36,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau R/C 32 1980 tips the scales at 8 378 lbs — 6 736 lbs more than the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2013 at 1 642 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 425 hp, the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2013 has a 400-hp advantage over the Beneteau R/C 32 1980's 25-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 Swift Trawler 34S 2013 carries 211 gallons versus 12 gallons in the Beneteau R/C 32 1980. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 10 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.
The Beneteau R/C 32 1980 has a documented displacement of 8 378 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau R/C 32 1980 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau R/C 32 1980 has a documented auxiliary engine of 25 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2013 carries 85 gallons versus 53 gallons on the Beneteau R/C 32 1980 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2013 at 36,0 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau R/C 32 1980 at 33,1 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.