Aeronca Champ vs American Champion Citabria
The Citabria (7ECA/7GCAA) is the direct descendant of the Aeronca Champ — both classic high-wing tailwheel two-seaters, the Citabria the modernised, aerobatic-capable evolution.
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) | Aeronca Champ | American Champion Citabria |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 7 | — |
| Serious | 0 | — |
| Fatal | 1 | — |
| Fatalities | 2 | — |
| % Fatal | 14% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Aeronca Champ | American Champion Citabria |
|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | — | — |
| Category | — | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Cruise Speed | 74 kts (137 km/h) | — |
| Range | 230 nm (426 km) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,220 lbs (553 kg) | — |
Which Should You Buy: Aeronca Champ or American Champion Citabria?
Bottom line: Choose the Aeronca Champ for vintage charm and lowest cost; choose the Citabria for a modern, aerobatic-capable (it's "airbatic" backwards), better-built version with factory support. Champ = vintage/value; Citabria = modern/aerobatic.
Pick the Champ if…
Pick the Citabria if…
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Aeronca Champ or American Champion Citabria?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Champ cruises at 74 kts with 230 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 Aeronca Champ and American Champion Citabria?
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?
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