De Havilland DH-84 vs Piper Seneca

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model De Havilland DH-84 Piper Seneca
De Havilland DH-84
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Median $211,581
Piper Seneca
View 110 listings →
Median $220,000
Price Range $211,581 $53,000 – $750,826
Category Multi Engine Piston Multi Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 6
Cruise Speed 180 kts (333 km/h)
Range 750 nm (1,389 km)
Service Ceiling 25,000 ft (7,620 m)
Max Gross Weight 4,750 lbs (2,155 kg)
Useful Load 1,590 lbs (721 kg)
Fuel Capacity 123.0 gal (466 L)
Fuel Burn 22.0 GPH (83 L/h)
TBO 1,800 hrs
Overhaul Cost $40,000
Annual Fixed $25,000
Hourly Variable $280
Engines 2 x Piston (Turbocharged)

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

De Havilland DH-84

Piper Seneca

Fuel$121/hr
Variable$280/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $81,000/yr

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, De Havilland DH-84 or Piper Seneca?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Seneca cruises at 180 kts with 750 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
De Havilland DH-84: from $211,581. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between De Havilland DH-84 and Piper Seneca?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Seneca: about $280/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?
Seneca: 6 seats / 1,590 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?
Seneca: 1,800-hour TBO, overhaul ~$40,000. 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