Aeronca Champ vs Luscombe 8A

The Luscombe 8A and Aeronca Champ are classic two-seat taildraggers — the Luscombe all-metal and sprightly, the Champ fabric, high-wing and gentle.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Aeronca Champ

No active listings right now.

Luscombe 8A
For sale now
2
Model years available
1946–1946

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)Aeronca ChampLuscombe 8A
All events7216
Serious020
Fatal127
Fatalities238
% Fatal14%12%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Aeronca Champ Luscombe 8A
Luscombe 8A
View 4 listings →
Median $25,000
Price Range $25,000
Category Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 2 2
Horsepower 65 HP 65 HP
Cruise Speed 74 kts (137 km/h) 90 kts (167 km/h)
Range 230 nm (426 km) 350 nm (648 km)
Service Ceiling 12,500 ft (3,810 m) 17,000 ft (5,182 m)
Max Gross Weight 1,220 lbs (553 kg)
Useful Load 430 lbs (195 kg) 500 lbs (227 kg)
Fuel Burn 4.5 GPH (17 L/h) 4.5 GPH (17 L/h)
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Aeronca Champ or Luscombe 8A?

Bottom line: Choose the Aeronca Champ for benign, forgiving classic handling and vintage charm; choose the Luscombe 8A for all-metal durability and a sportier, livelier feel. Champ = gentle/classic; Luscombe = metal/sport.

Pick the Champ if…

Pick the 8A if…

  • Faster cruise — 90 kts vs 74 kts.
  • Longer range — 350 nm vs 230 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, Aeronca Champ or Luscombe 8A?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Champ cruises at 74 kts with 230 nm range. The 8A cruises at 90 kts with 350 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Luscombe 8A: from $38,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Aeronca Champ and Luscombe 8A?
Cruise: 74 vs 90 kts. Range: 230 vs 350 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?
Champ: 2 seats / 430 lb useful load. 8A: 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