Beechcraft Skipper vs Piper J-3 Cub
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Beechcraft Skipper | Piper J-3 Cub |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $25,500 – $89,500 | $7,500 – $101,302 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 115 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 105 kts (194 km/h) | — |
| Range | 400 nm (741 km) | — |
| Useful Load | 550 lbs (249 kg) | — |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Beechcraft Skipper or Piper J-3 Cub?
Pick the Skipper if…
- Newer design — production from 1979 vs 1937.
Pick the J-3 Cub if…
- Budget matters — from $7,500 vs $25,500, you save ~$18,000.
- More inventory — 28 listings vs 3.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Beechcraft Skipper or Piper J-3 Cub?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Skipper cruises at 105 kts with 400 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Beechcraft Skipper: from $25,500.
Piper J-3 Cub: from $33,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Beechcraft Skipper and Piper J-3 Cub?
Skipper engine: Lycoming O-235 (115 hp).
J-3 Cub engine: Continental A-40.
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?
Skipper: 2 seats / 550 lb useful load.
J-3 Cub: 2 seats.
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?
Skipper: 2,000-hour TBO.
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