Maule M-5 vs Piper Super Cub

The Maule M-5 and Piper Super Cub are classic STOL taildraggers — the M-5 is the four-seat short-field hauler with more cabin and payload; the Super Cub is the two-seat back-country benchmark.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Maule M-5

No active listings right now.

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)Maule M-5Piper Super Cub
All events165
Serious10
Fatal26
Fatalities45
% Fatal16%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Maule M-5 Piper Super Cub
Piper Super Cub
View 48 listings →
Median $136,875
Price Range $63,716 – $223,750
Category Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Cruise Speed 140 kts (259 km/h) 100 kts (185 km/h)
Range 480 nm (889 km) 400 nm (741 km)
Max Gross Weight 2,300 lbs (1,043 kg) 1,750 lbs (794 kg)

Which Should You Buy: Maule M-5 or Piper Super Cub?

Bottom line: Choose the Super Cub for the lightest, most iconic two-seat back-country handling and the deepest mod ecosystem. Choose the Maule M-5 for four seats and more useful load in a capable STOL package — the family back-country choice.

Pick the M-5 if…

  • Faster cruise — 140 kts vs 100 kts.
  • Longer range — 480 nm vs 400 nm.

Pick the Super Cub 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, Maule M-5 or Piper Super Cub?
It depends on your mission and budget. The M-5 cruises at 140 kts with 480 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?
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 Maule M-5 and Piper Super Cub?
Cruise: 140 vs 100 kts. Range: 480 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