The Bertram 37 Convertible 1987 vs Bertram 46.6 1975 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.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 435 hp, the Bertram 46.6 1975 has a 60-hp advantage over the Bertram 37 Convertible 1987's 375-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Bertram 46.6 1975 carries 62 gallons versus 47 gallons in the Bertram 37 Convertible 1987. 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 Bertram 46.6 1975 is rated for 14 passengers, while the Bertram 37 Convertible 1987 caps at 11. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Bertram 46.6 1975 could be the deciding factor.
Bottom line: Choose the Bertram 46.6 1975 if your priority is putting more people on the water — it handles 14 passengers and at 47,0 ft it has the deck room to back that rating up comfortably. The Bertram 37 Convertible 1987 is the smarter pick if you want a lighter, easier-to-trailer boat rated for 11 that costs less to run day-to-day.