Stinson 108 vs Luscombe 8A
The Stinson 108 (four-seat tourer) and Luscombe 8A (two-seat sport taildragger) compare cabin utility against a light sporty classic.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Stinson 108 | Luscombe 8A |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $20,000 – $89,000 | $25,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | 2 |
| Cruise Speed | 4 kts (7 km/h) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) |
| Engines | — | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Stinson 108 or Luscombe 8A?
Bottom line: Choose the Stinson 108 for four seats and touring comfort; choose the Luscombe 8A for a light, sprightly, lower-cost two-seat classic. Stinson = 4-seat/touring; Luscombe = light/sport. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS ================================================================ - Cessna/Piper/Luscombe mirrors in those files. Reliant (radial classic) + L-5 Sentinel (liaison, vs Fieseler Storch) = other Stinson lines.
Pick the 108 if…
- Budget matters — from $20,000 vs $25,000, you save ~$5,000.
- More inventory — 2 listings vs 1.
Pick the 8A if…
- More seats — 2 vs 1.
- Newer design — production from 1946 vs 1945.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Stinson 108 or Luscombe 8A?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 108 cruises at 4 kts.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Stinson 108: from $20,000.
Luscombe 8A: from $25,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Stinson 108 and Luscombe 8A?
108 engine: Franklin 6A4-150;6AL-335.
Seats: 1 vs 2.
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?
108: 1 seats.
8A: 2 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