Gulfstream GIV vs Gulfstream G550
The Gulfstream IV and Gulfstream V are predecessor and successor in the Gulfstream long- range lineage — the GIV (1985-2003) is the ~4,200 nm intercontinental large-cabin heavy; the GV (1997-2003) is the ultra-long-range ~6,500 nm flagship that defined the segment.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Gulfstream GIV | Gulfstream G550 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $3,995,000 – $5,700,000 | $5,000,000 – $34,950,000 |
| Category | Large Cabin Jet | Large Cabin Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 18 |
| Cruise Speed | — | 488 kts (904 km/h) |
| Range | — | 6,750 nm (12,501 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 91,000 lbs (41,278 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 27,500 lbs (12,474 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 6,078.0 gal (23005 L) |
| Fuel Burn | — | 380.0 GPH (1438 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 7,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $1,300,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $900,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $5,500 |
| Engines | — | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateGulfstream GIV
Gulfstream G550
Fuel$2,090/hr
Variable$5,500/hr
Annual Fixed$900,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$2,000,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Gulfstream GIV or Gulfstream G550?
Bottom line: Choose the GV for genuine intercontinental nonstop range and the modern G550 lineage. Choose the GIV for excellent transatlantic capability at materially lower acquisition cost — the classic large-cabin Gulfstream.
Pick the GIV if…
- Budget matters — from $3,995,000 vs $5,000,000, you save ~$1,005,000.
- More inventory — 67 listings vs 65.
Pick the G550 if…
- Newer design — production from 2003 vs 1985.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Gulfstream GIV or Gulfstream G550?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The G550 cruises at 488 kts with 6,750 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 Gulfstream GIV and Gulfstream G550?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
G550: about $5500/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?
G550: 18 seats / 27,500 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?
G550: 7,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$1,300,000.
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