Robinson R44 Cadet vs Schweizer 300C
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Robinson R44 Cadet | Schweizer 300C |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $361,920 – $563,500 | $10,000 – $300,552 |
| Category | Piston Helicopters | Piston Helicopters |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 3 |
| Horsepower | 210 HP | 190 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 105 kts (194 km/h) | 75 kts (139 km/h) |
| Range | 300 nm (556 km) | 195 nm (361 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,200 lbs (998 kg) | 2,050 lbs (930 kg) |
| Useful Load | 750 lbs (340 kg) | 600 lbs (272 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 31.0 gal (117 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 14.0 GPH (53 L/h) | 8.0 GPH (30 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,400 hrs | 2,200 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $150,000 | $80,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $25,000 | $20,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $185 | $180 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateRobinson R44 Cadet
Fuel$77/hr
Variable$185/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$62,000/yr
Schweizer 300C
Fuel$44/hr
Variable$180/hr
Annual Fixed$20,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$56,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Robinson R44 Cadet or Schweizer 300C?
Pick the R44 Cadet if…
- Faster cruise — 105 kts vs 75 kts.
- Longer range — 300 nm vs 195 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2016 vs 1975.
- More inventory — 14 listings vs 7.
Pick the 300C if…
- Budget matters — from $10,000 vs $361,920, you save ~$351,920.
- Lower operating cost — ~$180/hr vs $185/hr.
- More seats — 3 vs 2.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Robinson R44 Cadet or Schweizer 300C?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The R44 Cadet cruises at 105 kts with 300 nm range.
The 300C cruises at 75 kts with 195 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 Robinson R44 Cadet and Schweizer 300C?
R44 Cadet engine: Lycoming O-540-F1B5 (derated) (210 hp).
300C engine: Lycoming HIO-360-D1A (190 hp).
Seats: 2 vs 3.
Cruise: 105 vs 75 kts.
Range: 300 vs 195 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
R44 Cadet: about $185/hr variable cost.
300C: about $180/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?
R44 Cadet: 2 seats / 750 lb useful load.
300C: 3 seats / 600 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?
R44 Cadet: 2,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$150,000.
300C: 2,200-hour TBO, overhaul ~$80,000.
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