Cessna A185E vs Cubcrafters Nxcub
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna A185E | Cubcrafters Nxcub |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $265,000 – $350,000 | $419,900 – $525,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 300 HP | 215 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 145 kts (269 km/h) | 126 kts (233 km/h) |
| Range | 720 nm (1,333 km) | 520 nm (963 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 18,500 ft (5,639 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 49.0 gal (185 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 14.0 GPH (53 L/h) | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) |
| TBO | 1,700 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $35,000 | $28,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $22,000 | $16,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $160 | $120 |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna A185E
Fuel$77/hr
Variable$160/hr
Annual Fixed$22,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$54,000/yr
Cubcrafters Nxcub
Fuel$50/hr
Variable$120/hr
Annual Fixed$16,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$40,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna A185E or Cubcrafters Nxcub?
Pick the A185E if…
- Budget matters — from $265,000 vs $419,900, you save ~$154,900.
- More seats — 6 vs 2.
- Faster cruise — 145 kts vs 126 kts.
- Longer range — 720 nm vs 520 nm.
Pick the Nxcub if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$120/hr vs $160/hr.
- Newer design — production from 2020 vs 1971.
- 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, Cessna A185E or Cubcrafters Nxcub?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The A185E cruises at 145 kts with 720 nm range.
The Nxcub cruises at 126 kts with 520 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna A185E: from $265,000.
Cubcrafters Nxcub: from $525,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna A185E and Cubcrafters Nxcub?
A185E engine: Continental IO-520-D (300 hp).
Seats: 6 vs 2.
Cruise: 145 vs 126 kts.
Range: 720 vs 520 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
A185E: about $160/hr variable cost.
Nxcub: about $120/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?
A185E: 6 seats / 1,440 lb useful load.
Nxcub: 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?
A185E: 1,700-hour TBO, overhaul ~$35,000.
Nxcub: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$28,000.
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