Cessna Citation Bravo vs Cessna Citation Excel
The Citation Excel and Citation Bravo are light-to-mid Citations that value-focused buyers compare. The Bravo is a refined evolution of the Citation II family with efficient engines and low operating costs, while the larger Excel offers a true stand-up cabin and more performance. The choice balances cabin size against economy.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation Bravo | Cessna Citation Excel |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $397,500 – $2,950,000 | $700,000 – $15,295,000 |
| Category | Midsize Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 8 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 370 kts (685 km/h) | 410 kts (759 km/h) |
| Range | 1,680 nm (3,111 km) | 1,858 nm (3,441 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 14,800 lbs (6,713 kg) | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) |
| Useful Load | 3,850 lbs (1,746 kg) | 5,100 lbs (2,313 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 470.0 gal (1779 L) | 580.0 gal (2195 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 130.0 GPH (492 L/h) | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) |
| TBO | 4,500 hrs | 4,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $280,000 | $350,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $300,000 | $320,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $1,900 | $2,200 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation Bravo
Fuel$715/hr
Variable$1,900/hr
Annual Fixed$300,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$680,000/yr
Cessna Citation Excel
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$320,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$760,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation Bravo or Cessna Citation Excel?
Bottom line: Choose the Bravo for the lowest operating cost and an excellent value entry into Citation ownership for shorter trips. Step up to the Excel for the stand-up cabin, more speed and range, and greater passenger comfort; the Excel is the more capable airplane, while the Bravo is the economical one.
Pick the Citation Bravo if…
- Budget matters — from $397,500 vs $700,000, you save ~$302,500.
- Lower operating cost — ~$1900/hr vs $2200/hr.
Pick the Citation Excel if…
- More seats — 9 vs 8.
- Faster cruise — 410 kts vs 370 kts.
- Longer range — 1858 nm vs 1680 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1998 vs 1997.
- More inventory — 105 listings vs 37.
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 Citation Bravo or Cessna Citation Excel?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation Bravo cruises at 370 kts with 1,680 nm range.
The Citation Excel cruises at 410 kts with 1,858 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation Bravo: from $2,950,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation Bravo and Cessna Citation Excel?
Seats: 8 vs 9.
Cruise: 370 vs 410 kts.
Range: 1680 vs 1858 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation Bravo: about $1900/hr variable cost.
Citation Excel: about $2200/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?
Citation Bravo: 8 seats / 3,850 lb useful load.
Citation Excel: 9 seats / 5,100 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?
Citation Bravo: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$280,000.
Citation Excel: 4,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000.
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