Aeronca Champ vs American Champion Citabria
The Citabria (7ECA/7GCAA) is the direct descendant of the Aeronca Champ — both classic high-wing tailwheel two-seaters, the Citabria the modernised, aerobatic-capable evolution.
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 | American Champion Citabria |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 7 | — |
| Serious | 0 | — |
| Fatal | 1 | — |
| Fatalities | 2 | — |
| % Fatal | 14% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Aeronca Champ | American Champion Citabria |
|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | — | $27,021 – $43,234 |
| Category | — | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 65 HP | 160 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 74 kts (137 km/h) | 110 kts (204 km/h) |
| Range | 230 nm (426 km) | 480 nm (889 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 12,500 ft (3,810 m) | 15,500 ft (4,724 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,220 lbs (553 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 430 lbs (195 kg) | 550 lbs (249 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 4.5 GPH (17 L/h) | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Aeronca Champ or American Champion Citabria?
Bottom line: Choose the Aeronca Champ for vintage charm and lowest cost; choose the Citabria for a modern, aerobatic-capable (it's "airbatic" backwards), better-built version with factory support. Champ = vintage/value; Citabria = modern/aerobatic.
Pick the Champ if…
Pick the Citabria if…
- Faster cruise — 110 kts vs 74 kts.
- Longer range — 480 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 American Champion Citabria?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Champ cruises at 74 kts with 230 nm range.
The Citabria cruises at 110 kts with 480 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
American Champion Citabria: from $27,021.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Aeronca Champ and American Champion Citabria?
Cruise: 74 vs 110 kts.
Range: 230 vs 480 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.
Citabria: 2 seats / 550 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 updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data