Jodel D11 vs Luscombe 8A

Jodel (wooden cranked-wing) and the Luscombe 8A (all-metal taildragger) are light classic two-seaters of different construction.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Jodel D11
For sale now
5
Model years available
1957–1970
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)Jodel D11Luscombe 8A
All events1216
Serious020
Fatal027
Fatalities038
% Fatal0%12%
View full Jodel D11 NTSB record →View full Luscombe 8A NTSB record →

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Jodel D11 Luscombe 8A
Jodel D11
View 1 listings →
Median $34,919
 Luscombe 8A
View 4 listings →
Median $25,000
Price Range $26,538 – $46,666 $25,000
Category Single Engine Piston Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 2 2
Horsepower 65 HP 65 HP
Cruise Speed 105 kts (194 km/h) 90 kts (167 km/h)
Range 630 nm (1,167 km) 350 nm (648 km)
Service Ceiling 13,000 ft (3,962 m) 17,000 ft (5,182 m)
Max Gross Weight 1,323 lbs (600 kg) —
Useful Load 500 lbs (227 kg) 500 lbs (227 kg)
Fuel Burn 5.0 GPH (19 L/h) 4.5 GPH (17 L/h)
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Jodel D11 or Luscombe 8A?

Bottom line: Choose the Luscombe for all-metal durability and easy inspection; choose the Jodel for light wooden handling and economy (verify wood structure). Luscombe = metal/durable; Jodel = wood/light.

Pick the D11 if…

  • Faster cruise — 105 kts vs 90 kts.
  • Longer range — 630 nm vs 350 nm.

Pick the 8A if…

  • Budget matters — from $25,000 vs $26,538, you save ~$1,538.
  • More inventory — 4 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, Jodel D11 or Luscombe 8A?
It depends on your mission and budget. The D11 cruises at 105 kts with 630 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?
Jodel D11: from $47,640. Luscombe 8A: from $38,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Jodel D11 and Luscombe 8A?
Cruise: 105 vs 90 kts. Range: 630 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?
D11: 2 seats / 500 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