Luscombe 8A vs Taylorcraft BC-12

The Luscombe 8A and Taylorcraft BC-12 are classic light two-seaters — the Luscombe metal and quick, the Taylorcraft fabric and light.

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
Taylorcraft BC-12

No active listings right now.

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 8ATaylorcraft BC-12
All events21648
Serious209
Fatal277
Fatalities388
% Fatal12%15%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Luscombe 8A Taylorcraft BC-12
Luscombe 8A
View 2 listings →
Median $25,000
Price Range $25,000
Category Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 2
Cruise Speed 83 kts (154 km/h)
Range 326 nm (604 km)
Max Gross Weight 1,200 lbs (544 kg)
Engines 1 x Piston

Which Should You Buy: Luscombe 8A or Taylorcraft BC-12?

Bottom line: Choose the Taylorcraft for light, economical, gentle flying; choose the Luscombe for all-metal durability and sprightlier handling. Taylorcraft = light/gentle; Luscombe = metal/sport. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS ================================================================ - Aeronca/Taylorcraft/Ercoupe mirrors in those files. All-metal = durable, easy corrosion inspection.

Pick the 8A if…

Pick the BC-12 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, Luscombe 8A or Taylorcraft BC-12?
It depends on your mission and budget. The BC-12 cruises at 83 kts with 326 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Luscombe 8A: from $25,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Luscombe 8A and Taylorcraft BC-12?
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. 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