Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 vs Vans RV-10

The Glasair Sportsman 2+2 and Van's RV-10 are four-seat kits — the Sportsman a utility/STOL machine (wheels/taildragger/floats), the RV-10 the faster cross-country four-seater.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2
For sale now
1
Model years available
2015–2015
Vans RV-10
For sale now
11
Median asking
$435,000
Range
$287,000–$513,400
Model years available
2007–2025

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

Safety Record

Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.

NTSB (1982–now)Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2Van's RV-10
All events4
Serious0
Fatal2
Fatalities4
% Fatal50%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 Van's RV-10
Vans RV-10
View 18 listings →
Median $435,000
Price Range $287,000 – $513,400
Category Experimental
Model Specifications
Seats 4 4
Horsepower 180 HP 260 HP
Cruise Speed 140 kts (259 km/h) 171 kts (317 km/h)
Range 700 nm (1,296 km) 930 nm (1,722 km)
Service Ceiling 20,000 ft (6,096 m) 20,000 ft (6,096 m)
Max Gross Weight 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg)
Useful Load 1,000 lbs (454 kg) 1,050 lbs (476 kg)
Fuel Burn 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) 12.0 GPH (45 L/h)
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 or Van's RV-10?

Bottom line: Choose the RV-10 for speed and the Van's community; choose the Sportsman for utility/ backcountry versatility (gear/float options). RV-10 = speed; Sportsman = utility/STOL.

Pick the SPORTSMAN GS-2 if…

Pick the RV-10 if…

  • Faster cruise — 171 kts vs 140 kts.
  • Longer range — 930 nm vs 700 nm.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 or Van's RV-10?
It depends on your mission and budget. The SPORTSMAN GS-2 cruises at 140 kts with 700 nm range. The RV-10 cruises at 171 kts with 930 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Van's RV-10: from $329,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 and Van's RV-10?
Cruise: 140 vs 171 kts. Range: 700 vs 930 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?
SPORTSMAN GS-2: 4 seats / 1,000 lb useful load. RV-10: 4 seats / 1,050 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 updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data