Blackshape Prime vs Jmb VL3
The Blackshape Prime (tandem) and JMB VL-3 (side-by-side) are premium fast retractable LSAs of different seating layout.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle
Blackshape Prime
- For sale now
- 4
- Model years available
- 2013–2024
Jmb VL3
- For sale now
- 41
- Median asking
- $262,935
- Range
- $167,324–$385,500
- Model years available
- 2012–2025
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Blackshape Prime | JMB VL3 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $153,641 – $216,392 | $167,324 – $385,500 |
| Category | Light Sport | Light Sport |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 147 kts (272 km/h) | 150 kts (278 km/h) |
| Range | 650 nm (1,204 km) | 900 nm (1,667 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 15,000 ft (4,572 m) | 18,000 ft (5,486 m) |
| Useful Load | 520 lbs (236 kg) | 550 lbs (249 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 5.0 GPH (19 L/h) | 5.0 GPH (19 L/h) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Blackshape Prime or JMB VL3?
Bottom line: Choose the Prime for tandem fighter-style seating and carbon construction; choose the VL-3 for side-by-side seating and record-setting speed. Prime = tandem/style; VL-3 = side-by-side/speed.
Pick the Prime if…
- Budget matters — from $153,641 vs $167,324, you save ~$13,683.
Pick the VL3 if…
- Faster cruise — 150 kts vs 147 kts.
- Longer range — 900 nm vs 650 nm.
- More inventory — 5 listings vs 2.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Blackshape Prime or JMB VL3?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Prime cruises at 147 kts with 650 nm range.
The VL3 cruises at 150 kts with 900 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Blackshape Prime: from $132,045.
JMB VL3: from $225,866.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Blackshape Prime and JMB VL3?
Cruise: 147 vs 150 kts.
Range: 650 vs 900 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?
Prime: 2 seats / 520 lb useful load.
VL3: 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 re-checked on a rolling cycle — most within a few days · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data