Fournier RF-5 vs Grob G109

The Fournier RF-5 and Grob G109 are touring motorgliders — the RF-5 a light wooden classic, the G109 a roomier composite side-by-side motorglider.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle

Fournier RF-5
For sale now
3
Model years available
1969–1972
Grob G109
For sale now
10
Model years available
1980–1990

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Fournier RF-5 Grob G109
Median $48,887
Price Range $40,739 – $64,645
Category
Model Specifications
Seats 2 2
Horsepower 68 HP 95 HP
Cruise Speed 95 kts (176 km/h) 100 kts (185 km/h)
Range 500 nm (926 km) 430 nm (796 km)
Service Ceiling 13,000 ft (3,962 m) 16,000 ft (4,877 m)
Useful Load 450 lbs (204 kg) 500 lbs (227 kg)
Fuel Burn 4.5 GPH (17 L/h) 5.0 GPH (19 L/h)
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Fournier RF-5 or Grob G109?

Bottom line: Choose the Grob G109 for a roomier composite cabin and more touring capability; choose the Fournier RF-5 for light wooden elegance and economy (wood-structure care). G109 = composite/cabin; RF-5 = light/wooden.

Pick the RF-5 if…

  • Longer range — 500 nm vs 430 nm.

Pick the G109 if…

  • Faster cruise — 100 kts vs 95 kts.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Fournier RF-5 or Grob G109?
It depends on your mission and budget. The RF-5 cruises at 95 kts with 500 nm range. The G109 cruises at 100 kts with 430 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Fournier RF-5 and Grob G109?
Cruise: 95 vs 100 kts. Range: 500 vs 430 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
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?
RF-5: 2 seats / 450 lb useful load. G109: 2 seats / 500 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?
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