Cessna Citation II vs Cessna Citation V

The Cessna Citation V and Citation II are both straight-wing light Citations, with the V as the stretched successor. The Citation V offers a longer cabin, more power, and improved performance, while the older, smaller Citation II is the simpler, more economical entry point with the same gentle handling and easy field manners.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Cessna Citation II Cessna Citation V
Cessna Citation II
View 75 listings →
Median $795,000
Cessna Citation V
View 120 listings →
Median $2,047,500
Price Range $273,750 – $2,649,000 $397,500 – $4,500,000
Category Light Jet Light Jet
Model Specifications
Seats 10 9
Cruise Speed 345 kts (639 km/h) 390 kts (722 km/h)
Range 1,600 nm (2,963 km) 1,800 nm (3,334 km)
Service Ceiling 43,000 ft (13,106 m) 45,000 ft (13,716 m)
Max Gross Weight 13,300 lbs (6,033 kg) 15,900 lbs (7,212 kg)
Useful Load 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg) 4,250 lbs (1,928 kg)
Fuel Capacity 470.0 gal (1779 L) 500.0 gal (1892 L)
Fuel Burn 125.0 GPH (473 L/h) 140.0 GPH (530 L/h)
TBO 4,500 hrs 4,500 hrs
Overhaul Cost $350,000 $300,000
Annual Fixed $350,000 $300,000
Hourly Variable $2,200 $2,000
Engines 2 x Turbofan 2 x Turbofan

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Cessna Citation II

Fuel$688/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $790,000/yr

Cessna Citation V

Fuel$770/hr
Variable$2,000/hr
Annual Fixed$300,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $700,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation II or Cessna Citation V?

Bottom line: Choose the Citation V for a larger cabin and stronger performance; pick the Citation II for the lowest acquisition and operating costs. Cabin size, age, and budget typically decide between these closely related straight-wing Citations.

Pick the Citation II if…

  • Budget matters — from $273,750 vs $397,500, you save ~$123,750.
  • More seats — 10 vs 9.

Pick the Citation V if…

  • Lower operating cost — ~$2000/hr vs $2200/hr.
  • Faster cruise — 390 kts vs 345 kts.
  • Longer range — 1800 nm vs 1600 nm.
  • Newer design — production from 1989 vs 1978.
  • More inventory — 120 listings vs 75.

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 II or Cessna Citation V?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Citation II cruises at 345 kts with 1,600 nm range. The Citation V cruises at 390 kts with 1,800 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation II: from $725,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation II and Cessna Citation V?
Seats: 10 vs 9. Cruise: 345 vs 390 kts. Range: 1600 vs 1800 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation II: about $2200/hr variable cost. Citation V: about $2000/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 II: 10 seats / 4,000 lb useful load. Citation V: 9 seats / 4,250 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 II: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000. Citation V: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$300,000. 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