Van's RV-4 Aircraft

The Vans RV-4 is the tandem-seat experimental RV for buyers who want light, responsive handling and efficient sport cross-country flying in the original compact RV spirit. It is more personal and builder-dependent than later RV models, so the aircraft's workmanship, documentation, and engine installation matter as much as the model name. Compared with the RV-8, the RV-4 is the smaller, earlier tandem RV; compared with side-by-side RVs, it trades social cabin layout for tandem sport-aircraft feel.

Van's RV-4 aircraft for sale

9 used Van's RV-4 aircraft for sale · 2-seat · $52,000–$104,900 · market reference $95,000 · updated 10 hours ago

Van's RV-4 Specifications

Model spec

The Van's RV-4 is a 2-seat experimental with a cruise speed of 150 kt (278 km/h), a range of 510 nm (945 km), and a useful load of 600 lbs (272 kg).

Performance
Cruise150 kt (278 km/h)
Range510 nm (945 km)
Service Ceiling22,000 ft (6,706 m)
Engine & Fuel
Horsepower160 HP
Fuel Burn7.5 GPH (28 L/h)
ICAO TypeRV4
Weights & Seats
Seats2
Max Gross Weight1,500 lbs (680 kg)
Useful Load600 lbs (272 kg)
Production1979–1995

Van's RV-4 for Sale

Van's RV-4 asking prices range from $52,000 to $104,900, with a median of $73,000 (market reference $95,000).

$52,000 ↓ -$6K
For Sale
Location Burlington, VT
Listed 1mo ago
$61,500
For Sale
Reg# N85PW US
Location Lake Geneva, WI
Listed 7d ago
$65,000
For Sale
Total Time 1,410
Reg# N17PT US
Location Houston, TX
Multiple sources
$67,000
For Sale
Total Time 937
Reg# N621V US
Location Burnet, TX
Multiple sources
$72,972
For Sale
Total Time 1,531
Reg# VH-KOH Australia
Location New South Wales, Australia
Listed 12d ago
$74,000
For Sale
Total Time 839
Reg# N639TB US
Location Nampa (), ID
$87,000
For Sale
Total Time 550
Reg# N40VZ US
Location Fort Worth, TX
$94,575
For Sale
Total Time 520
Reg# G-INTS UK
Location West Midlands, United Kingdom
Via AFORS
Listed 15d ago
$104,900
For Sale
Reg# N511TG US
Location Mojave, CA
Multiple sources
$7,093/mo
For Lease
Reg# G-IIGI UK
Location United Kingdom
Via AFORS
Listed 15d ago

Compare Van's RV-4

Detailed comparisons for the Van's RV-4 are being prepared.

Browse all Van's models →

Van's RV-4 Price & Cost

How much does a Van's RV-4 cost? Used RV-4 prices: $52K – $104K, average $73K (median $73K); market reference $95K, across 9 priced of 9 active listings.

Van's RV-4 Price Guide

Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.

Van's RV-4 Cost of Ownership estimate
Fuel (7.5 GPH × $6.20, 100 hrs)$4,650/yr
Estimates at 100 flight hours/year. Actual costs vary by usage, location and insurance.

Buying a Used Van's RV-4

Buying a Van's RV-4 comes down to a focused pre-purchase checklist — here is what matters most on this model:

What to check before buying

The cost driver is build quality rather than generic piston-single expense. Airframe workmanship, engine installation, wiring, fuel system, weight and balance, documentation, and condition-inspection history should decide value before paint or panel.

Frequently Asked Questions — Van's RV-4

What should buyers know about the Van's RV-4?
The RV-4 is a two-seat, tandem-seating taildragger — one of Van's earliest and most aerobatic designs. Lycoming O-320 (150 hp) or IO-320 (160 hp) power. Cruise is 175+ knots. The RV-4 is fully aerobatic (+6/-3 G). Used prices of $50-90K for quality builds. Build quality varies enormously — a thorough condition inspection by an RV-experienced A&P is essential before purchase.
Disclaimer: All prices, cost estimates, and market values shown are based on asking prices from third-party sources and are provided for informational purposes only. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and independent inspection before making a purchase decision.
Listings last refreshed 10 hours ago · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data