The Bennington 1850 GL 2006 vs Bennington 2050 FSi 2007 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 Bennington 1850 GL 2006 measures 18,0 feet overall (2006), giving it roughly 16,0 additional feet of deck space compared to the Bennington 2050 FSi 2007 at 2,0 feet (2007). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Bennington 2050 FSi 2007 tips the scales at 2 553 lbs — 2 366 lbs less than the Bennington 1850 GL 2006 at 187 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 60 hp, the Bennington 1850 GL 2006 has a 37-hp advantage over the Bennington 2050 FSi 2007's 23-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Bennington 2050 FSi 2007 carries 31 gallons versus 26 gallons in the Bennington 1850 GL 2006. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 23 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.
At this size, power-to-weight ratio matters more than outright horsepower. The Bennington 1850 GL 2006 comes in at 3 lbs per hp versus 111 lbs per hp for the Bennington 2050 FSi 2007. The lower the ratio the more explosive the acceleration — meaningful on a short RIB where bursts of speed, quick planing, and agility in surf or tight waterways define the experience.
Both are inflatable designs, which means they pack down for compact storage, can be carried in a bag, and are dramatically lighter than equivalent rigid hulls. The trade-off is setup time and the need to monitor tube pressure regularly.
Bottom line: The Bennington 1850 GL 2006 at 18,0 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Bennington 2050 FSi 2007 at 2,0 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.