Lancair 235 vs Vans RV-12
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Lancair 235
No active listings right now.
Vans RV-12
- For sale now
- 10
- Median asking
- $89,750
- Range
- $80,011–$120,850
- Model years available
- 2011–2018
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) | Lancair 235 | Van's RV-12 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 7 | 2 |
| Serious | 0 | 0 |
| Fatal | 2 | 2 |
| Fatalities | 4 | 2 |
| % Fatal | 29% | 100% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Lancair 235 | Van's RV-12 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $9,495 – $104,246 | $80,011 – $120,850 |
| Category | Experimental | Experimental |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 2 |
| Horsepower | — | 100 HP |
| Cruise Speed | — | 117 kts (217 km/h) |
| Range | — | 550 nm (1,019 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 13,800 ft (4,206 m) |
| Useful Load | — | 560 lbs (254 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | — | 5.5 GPH (21 L/h) |
| Engines | — | 1 x Piston |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Lancair 235 or Van's RV-12?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The RV-12 cruises at 117 kts with 550 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Lancair 235: from $104,246.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Lancair 235 and Van's RV-12?
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?
RV-12: 2 seats / 560 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