North American T-6 Texan vs Siai-Marchetti SF-260

The radial T-6 Texan and the SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 compare a classic radial trainer against a fast modern piston warbird trainer.

Live Market Snapshot

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

North American T-6 Texan
For sale now
20
Median asking
$259,000
Range
$135,940–$352,000
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
8
Source marketplaces
7
Model years available
1940–1958
Siai-Marchetti SF-260

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)North American T-6 TexanSIAI-Marchetti SF-260
All events2
Serious0
Fatal2
Fatalities3
% Fatal100%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model North American T-6 TEXAN SIAI-Marchetti SF-260
North American T-6 Texan
View 1 listings →
Median $259,000
Price Range $135,940 – $352,000
Category Warbirds
Model Specifications
Cruise Speed 126 kts (233 km/h) 160 kts (296 km/h)
Range 630 nm (1,167 km) 890 nm (1,648 km)
Max Gross Weight 5,617 lbs (2,548 kg) 2,646 lbs (1,200 kg)

Which Should You Buy: North American T-6 Texan or SIAI-Marchetti SF-260?

Bottom line: Choose the T-6 for radial warbird character and heritage; choose the SF.260 for speed, fighter-like handling and lower running cost. T-6 = radial heritage; SF.260 = speed/modern. ================================================================ # North American P-51 Mustang — fighter warbird ================================================================

Pick the T-6 Texan if…

Pick the SF-260 if…

  • Faster cruise — 160 kts vs 126 kts.
  • Longer range — 890 nm vs 630 nm.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, North American T-6 TEXAN or SIAI-Marchetti SF-260?
It depends on your mission and budget. The T-6 TEXAN cruises at 126 kts with 630 nm range. The SF-260 cruises at 160 kts with 890 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
North American T-6 TEXAN: from $289,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between North American T-6 Texan and SIAI-Marchetti SF-260?
Cruise: 126 vs 160 kts. Range: 630 vs 890 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