Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 vs Vans RV-6A
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle
Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2
- For sale now
- 1
- Model years available
- 2015–2015
Vans RV-6A
- For sale now
- 13
- Median asking
- $109,000
- Range
- $70,660–$148,315
- Model years available
- 1997–2023
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-2 | Van's RV-6A |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 2 |
| Serious | — | 0 |
| Fatal | — | 1 |
| Fatalities | — | 2 |
| % Fatal | — | 50% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 | Van's RV-6A |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
| Price Range | — | $70,660 – $148,315 |
| Category | — | Experimental |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 180 HP | 180 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 140 kts (259 km/h) | 166 kts (307 km/h) |
| Range | 700 nm (1,296 km) | 626 nm (1,159 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 20,000 ft (6,096 m) | 22,000 ft (6,706 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 1,650 lbs (748 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,000 lbs (454 kg) | 620 lbs (281 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) | 8.5 GPH (32 L/h) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 or Van's RV-6A?
Pick the SPORTSMAN GS-2 if…
- More seats — 4 vs 2.
- Longer range — 700 nm vs 626 nm.
Pick the RV-6A if…
- Faster cruise — 166 kts vs 140 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, Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 or Van's RV-6A?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The SPORTSMAN GS-2 cruises at 140 kts with 700 nm range.
The RV-6A cruises at 166 kts with 626 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Van's RV-6A: from $86,608.
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-6A?
Seats: 4 vs 2.
Cruise: 140 vs 166 kts.
Range: 700 vs 626 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-6A: 2 seats / 620 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