Luscombe 8A vs Ercoupe 415-C

The Ercoupe 415 and Luscombe 8A are classic all-metal two-seaters — the Ercoupe a spin-resistant twin-tail tricycle (often no rudder pedals), the Luscombe a sprightly taildragger.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Luscombe 8A
For sale now
2
Source marketplaces
2
Model years available
1946–1946
Ercoupe 415-C
For sale now
6
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
1
Source marketplaces
4
Model years available
1946–1947

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)Luscombe 8AErcoupe 415-C
All events21638
Serious204
Fatal278
Fatalities3811
% Fatal12%21%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Luscombe 8A Ercoupe 415-C
Luscombe 8A
View 2 listings →
Median $25,000
Ercoupe 415-C
View 7 listings →
Median $28,000
Price Range $25,000 $25,400 – $45,000
Category Single Engine Piston Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 2 2
Cruise Speed 83 kts (154 km/h)
Range 260 nm (482 km)
Max Gross Weight 1,260 lbs (572 kg)
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Luscombe 8A or Ercoupe 415-C?

Bottom line: Choose the Ercoupe for easy, spin-resistant tricycle-gear flying (no/optional rudder pedals); choose the Luscombe 8A for classic taildragger handling and a sportier feel. Ercoupe = easy/spin-resistant; Luscombe = taildragger/sport.

Pick the 8A if…

  • Budget matters — from $25,000 vs $25,400, you save ~$400.

Pick the 415-C if…

  • Newer design — production from 1947 vs 1946.
  • More inventory — 7 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, Luscombe 8A or Ercoupe 415-C?
It depends on your mission and budget. The 415-C cruises at 83 kts with 260 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Luscombe 8A: from $25,000. Ercoupe 415-C: from $28,500. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Luscombe 8A and Ercoupe 415-C?
415-C engine: Continental A65-8.
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?
8A: 2 seats. 415-C: 2 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