Vans RV-4 vs Zenair 601HDS Zodiac
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · re-checked on a rolling daily cycle
Vans RV-4
- For sale now
- 10
- Median asking
- $69,986
- Range
- $27,286–$100,094
- Model years available
- 1987–2021
Zenair 601HDS Zodiac
No active listings right now.
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) | Van's RV-4 | Zenair 601HDS Zodiac |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 1 | — |
| Serious | 0 | — |
| Fatal | 1 | — |
| Fatalities | 1 | — |
| % Fatal | 100% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Van's RV-4 | Zenair 601HDS Zodiac |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $27,286 – $100,094 | $40,380 |
| Category | Experimental | Experimental |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | — |
| Horsepower | 160 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 150 kts (278 km/h) | — |
| Range | 510 nm (945 km) | — |
| Service Ceiling | 22,000 ft (6,706 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 600 lbs (272 kg) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 7.5 GPH (28 L/h) | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | — |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Van's RV-4 or Zenair 601HDS Zodiac?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The RV-4 cruises at 150 kts with 510 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Van's RV-4: from $104,900.
Zenair 601HDS Zodiac: from $40,380.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Van's RV-4 and Zenair 601HDS Zodiac?
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?
RV-4: 2 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?
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