Aeronca Champ vs Taylorcraft BC-12
The Aeronca Champ and Taylorcraft BC-12 are classic fabric two-seaters — the Champ tandem, the Taylorcraft side-by-side.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Aeronca Champ | Taylorcraft BC-12 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 7 | 48 |
| Serious | 0 | 9 |
| Fatal | 1 | 7 |
| Fatalities | 2 | 8 |
| % Fatal | 14% | 15% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Aeronca Champ | Taylorcraft BC-12 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
| Price Range | — | — |
| Category | — | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 65 HP | 65 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 74 kts (137 km/h) | 83 kts (154 km/h) |
| Range | 230 nm (426 km) | 326 nm (604 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 12,500 ft (3,810 m) | 12,000 ft (3,658 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,220 lbs (553 kg) | 1,200 lbs (544 kg) |
| Useful Load | 430 lbs (195 kg) | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 4.5 GPH (17 L/h) | 4.5 GPH (17 L/h) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Aeronca Champ or Taylorcraft BC-12?
Bottom line: Choose the Champ for tandem classic training feel; choose the Taylorcraft for side-by-side seating and light economy. Champ = tandem; Taylorcraft = side-by-side.
Pick the Champ if…
Pick the BC-12 if…
- Faster cruise — 83 kts vs 74 kts.
- Longer range — 326 nm vs 230 nm.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Aeronca Champ or Taylorcraft BC-12?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Champ cruises at 74 kts with 230 nm range.
The BC-12 cruises at 83 kts with 326 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Aeronca Champ and Taylorcraft BC-12?
Cruise: 74 vs 83 kts.
Range: 230 vs 326 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Champ: 2 seats / 430 lb useful load.
BC-12: 2 seats / 500 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices re-checked on a rolling cycle — most within a few days · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data