Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 vs Vans RV-10

The Glasair Sportsman 2+2 and Van's RV-10 are four-seat kits — the Sportsman a utility/STOL machine (wheels/taildragger/floats), the RV-10 the faster cross-country four-seater.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2
For sale now
1
Source marketplaces
1
Model years available
2015–2015
Vans RV-10
For sale now
11
Median asking
$435,000
Range
$287,000–$513,400
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
4
Source marketplaces
3
Model years available
2007–2025

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)Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2Vans RV-10
All events4
Serious0
Fatal2
Fatalities4
% Fatal50%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 Vans RV-10
View 2 listings →
Median $199,000
Vans RV-10
View 12 listings →
Median $435,000
Price Range $199,000 $287,000 – $513,400
Category Experimental
Model Specifications
Seats 1 4
Cruise Speed 171 kts (317 km/h)
Range 930 nm (1,722 km)
Max Gross Weight 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg)
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 or Vans RV-10?

Bottom line: Choose the RV-10 for speed and the Van's community; choose the Sportsman for utility/ backcountry versatility (gear/float options). RV-10 = speed; Sportsman = utility/STOL. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS ================================================================ - Lancair/Van's mirrors in those files. GlaStar = lighter two-seat Sportsman predecessor.

Pick the SPORTSMAN GS-2 if…

  • Budget matters — from $199,000 vs $287,000, you save ~$88,000.

Pick the RV-10 if…

  • More seats — 4 vs 1.
  • More inventory — 12 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, Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 or Vans RV-10?
It depends on your mission and budget. The RV-10 cruises at 171 kts with 930 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Vans RV-10: from $495,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Glasair SPORTSMAN GS-2 and Vans RV-10?
Seats: 1 vs 4.
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?
SPORTSMAN GS-2: 1 seats. RV-10: 4 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