Stinson 108 vs Piper Pacer

The Stinson 108 and Piper Pacer/Tri-Pacer are classic four-seat taildragger tourers.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Stinson 108
For sale now
2
Source marketplaces
1
Model years available
1946–1946
Piper Pacer
For sale now
1
Source marketplaces
1
Model years available
1950–1950

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)Stinson 108Piper Pacer
All events390
Serious47
Fatal32
Fatalities57
% Fatal8%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Stinson 108 Piper Pacer
Stinson 108
View 2 listings →
Median $54,500
View 1 listings →
Median $4,500
Price Range $23,450 – $85,550 $4,500
Category Single Engine Piston Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 1
Cruise Speed 105 kts (194 km/h) 109 kts (202 km/h)
Range 504 nm (933 km)
Max Gross Weight 1,950 lbs (885 kg)
Engines 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Stinson 108 or Piper Pacer?

Bottom line: Choose the Stinson 108 for a roomier cabin and more presence; choose the Piper Pacer for lighter handling, lower cost and Piper support. Stinson = cabin/presence; Pacer = light/value.

Pick the 108 if…

  • More inventory — 2 listings vs 1.

Pick the Pacer if…

  • Budget matters — from $4,500 vs $23,450, you save ~$18,950.
  • Faster cruise — 109 kts vs 105 kts.

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 Piper Pacer?
It depends on your mission and budget. The 108 cruises at 105 kts. The Pacer cruises at 109 kts with 504 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Stinson 108: from $20,000. Piper Pacer: from $4,500. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Stinson 108 and Piper Pacer?
108 engine: Franklin 6A4-150;6AL-335. Cruise: 105 vs 109 kts.
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. 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