Cubcrafters Carbon Cub vs Piper Super Cub

The Carbon Cub and Piper Super Cub compare the modern, high-power-to-weight evolution against the original backcountry legend.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Cubcrafters Carbon Cub
For sale now
25
Median asking
$279,000
Range
$187,720–$395,100
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
8
Source marketplaces
6
Model years available
2007–2025
Piper Super Cub
For sale now
48
Median asking
$136,875
Range
$63,716–$223,750
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
15
Source marketplaces
9
Model years available
1944–2024

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)Cubcrafters Carbon CubPiper Super Cub
All events1
Serious0
Fatal0
Fatalities0
% Fatal0%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Cubcrafters Carbon Cub Piper Super Cub
Cubcrafters Carbon Cub
View 2 listings →
Median $279,000
Piper Super Cub
View 48 listings →
Median $136,875
Price Range $187,720 – $395,100 $63,716 – $223,750
Category Single Engine Piston Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Cruise Speed 96 kts (178 km/h) 100 kts (185 km/h)
Range 390 nm (722 km) 400 nm (741 km)
Max Gross Weight 1,320 lbs (599 kg) 1,750 lbs (794 kg)

Which Should You Buy: Cubcrafters Carbon Cub or Piper Super Cub?

Bottom line: Choose the Carbon Cub for modern construction, lighter weight and superior STOL numbers; choose the Super Cub for lower cost, the original pedigree and a vast aftermarket. Carbon Cub = modern STOL; Super Cub = legend/value.

Pick the Carbon Cub if…

Pick the Super Cub if…

  • Budget matters — from $63,716 vs $187,720, you save ~$124,004.
  • Faster cruise — 100 kts vs 96 kts.
  • Longer range — 400 nm vs 390 nm.
  • More inventory — 48 listings vs 2.

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Cubcrafters Carbon Cub or Piper Super Cub?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Carbon Cub cruises at 96 kts with 390 nm range. The Super Cub cruises at 100 kts with 400 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cubcrafters Carbon Cub: from $289,000. Piper Super Cub: from $199,500. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cubcrafters Carbon Cub and Piper Super Cub?
Cruise: 96 vs 100 kts. Range: 390 vs 400 nm.
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