Cessna 421C vs Convair 28-5ACF
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle
Cessna 421C
- For sale now
- 63
- Median asking
- $465,000
- Range
- $190,200–$695,000
- Model years available
- 1974–1984
Convair 28-5ACF
No active listings right now.
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
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) | Cessna 421C | Convair 28-5ACF |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 136 | — |
| Serious | 7 | — |
| Fatal | 55 | — |
| Fatalities | 157 | — |
| % Fatal | 40% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Cessna 421C | Convair 28-5ACF |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $190,200 – $695,000 | $924,209 |
| Category | Multi Engine Piston | Multi Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 8 | — |
| Horsepower | 375 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 230 kts (426 km/h) | — |
| Range | 1,385 nm (2,565 km) | — |
| Service Ceiling | 30,200 ft (9,205 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 7,450 lbs (3,379 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 2,450 lbs (1,111 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 130.0 gal (492 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 35.0 GPH (132 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 1,600 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $50,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $35,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $400 | — |
| Engines | 2 x Piston (Turbocharged) | — |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 421C
Fuel$192/hr
Variable$400/hr
Annual Fixed$35,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$115,000/yr
Convair 28-5ACF
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 421C or Convair 28-5ACF?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 421C cruises at 230 kts with 1,385 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna 421C: from $275,000.
Convair 28-5ACF: from $924,209.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 421C and Convair 28-5ACF?
421C engine: CONTINENTAL GTSIO-520-N (375 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
421C: about $400/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?
421C: 8 seats / 2,450 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?
421C: 1,600-hour TBO, overhaul ~$50,000.
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 re-checked on a rolling cycle — most within a few days · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data