Beechcraft Sundowner vs Grumman AA-5B Tiger
The Tiger and Beechcraft Sundowner compare two low-wing four-seat fixed-gear singles.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Beechcraft Sundowner | Grumman AA-5B Tiger |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $38,707 – $145,000 | $84,724 – $199,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 180 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 125 kts (232 km/h) | — |
| Range | 600 nm (1,111 km) | — |
| Useful Load | 900 lbs (408 kg) | — |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Beechcraft Sundowner or Grumman AA-5B Tiger?
Bottom line: Choose the Tiger for noticeably higher cruise and lighter handling; choose the Sundowner for a roomier, heavier-feeling cabin with Beechcraft build. Tiger = speed; Sundowner = cabin/solidity. ================================================================ # Grumman Cheetah (AA-5A) — four-seat fixed-gear (lower power) ================================================================
Pick the Sundowner if…
- Budget matters — from $38,707 vs $84,724, you save ~$46,017.
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- More inventory — 20 listings vs 17.
Pick the AA-5B Tiger if…
- Newer design — production from 1975 vs 1971.
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 Sundowner or Grumman AA-5B Tiger?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Sundowner cruises at 125 kts with 600 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Grumman AA-5B Tiger: from $139,097.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Beechcraft Sundowner and Grumman AA-5B Tiger?
Sundowner engine: Lycoming IO-360-A1B6 (180 hp).
AA-5B Tiger engine: Lycoming O-360-A4K.
Seats: 6 vs 4.
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?
Sundowner: 6 seats / 900 lb useful load.
AA-5B Tiger: 4 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?
Sundowner: 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