Luscombe 8A vs Ercoupe 415-C
The Ercoupe 415 and Luscombe 8A are classic all-metal two-seaters — the Ercoupe a spin-resistant twin-tail tricycle (often no rudder pedals), the Luscombe a sprightly taildragger.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Luscombe 8A | Ercoupe 415-C |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $25,000 | $24,000 – $47,500 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 1 |
| Cruise Speed | — | 2 kts (4 km/h) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | — |
Which Should You Buy: Luscombe 8A or Ercoupe 415-C?
Bottom line: Choose the Ercoupe for easy, spin-resistant tricycle-gear flying (no/optional rudder pedals); choose the Luscombe 8A for classic taildragger handling and a sportier feel. Ercoupe = easy/spin-resistant; Luscombe = taildragger/sport.
Pick the 8A if…
- More seats — 2 vs 1.
Pick the 415-C if…
- Budget matters — from $24,000 vs $25,000, you save ~$1,000.
- Newer design — production from 1947 vs 1946.
- More inventory — 6 listings vs 1.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Luscombe 8A or Ercoupe 415-C?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 415-C cruises at 2 kts.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Luscombe 8A: from $25,000.
Ercoupe 415-C: from $47,500.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Luscombe 8A and Ercoupe 415-C?
415-C engine: Continental A65-8.
Seats: 2 vs 1.
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?
8A: 2 seats.
415-C: 1 seats.
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