Cessna 150 vs Grumman AA-5B Tiger
The Cessna 150 and Grumman AA-5B Tiger appeal to budget buyers wanting an economical airplane, though they differ in seating and performance. The two-seat 150 is the ultimate low-cost trainer, while the four-seat Tiger offers more speed and capability with a sliding canopy. The comparison weighs minimal cost against added performance and seating.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 150 | Grumman AA-5B Tiger |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $25,000 – $129,900 | $84,724 – $199,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 100 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 97 kts (180 km/h) | — |
| Range | 420 nm (778 km) | — |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,600 lbs (726 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 530 lbs (240 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 26.0 gal (98 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 6.0 GPH (23 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 2,400 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $25,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $15,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $100 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 150
Fuel$33/hr
Variable$100/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$35,000/yr
Grumman AA-5B Tiger
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 150 or Grumman AA-5B Tiger?
Bottom line: Choose the Cessna 150 for the absolute lowest-cost two-seat flying and training. Pick the AA-5B Tiger when you need four seats, faster cruise, and a sportier experience; the 150 is the budget trainer, while the Tiger is the more capable and faster four-seat single.
Pick the 150 if…
- Budget matters — from $25,000 vs $84,724, you save ~$59,724.
- More inventory — 131 listings vs 17.
Pick the AA-5B Tiger if…
- More seats — 4 vs 2.
- Newer design — production from 1975 vs 1959.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 150 or Grumman AA-5B Tiger?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 150 cruises at 97 kts with 420 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Grumman AA-5B Tiger: from $124,900.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 150 and Grumman AA-5B Tiger?
150 engine: Continental O-200 (100 hp).
AA-5B Tiger engine: Lycoming O-360-A4K.
Seats: 2 vs 4.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
150: about $100/hr variable cost.
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?
150: 2 seats / 530 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?
150: 2,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$25,000.
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