Piper Twin Comanche vs Cessna 310

The Piper Twin Comanche (light, efficient) and Cessna 310 (faster, larger light twin) are different points in the piston-twin range — the Twin Comanche prioritises economy; the 310 prioritises speed and cabin.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Piper Twin Comanche
For sale now
23
Median asking
$143,000
Range
$105,000–$210,000
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
2
Source marketplaces
5
Model years available
1964–1973
Cessna 310

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)Piper Twin ComancheCessna 310
All events584
Serious42
Fatal181
Fatalities354
% Fatal31%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Piper Twin Comanche Cessna 310
Piper Twin Comanche
View 26 listings →
Median $143,000
View 48 listings →
Median $145,000
Price Range $105,000 – $210,000 $19,000 – $270,000
Category Multi Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 4 5
Horsepower 240 HP
Cruise Speed 155 kts (287 km/h) 190 kts (352 km/h)
Range 1,000 nm (1,852 km) 800 nm (1,482 km)
Max Gross Weight 3,725 lbs (1,690 kg) 4,830 lbs (2,191 kg)
Useful Load 1,700 lbs (771 kg)
Fuel Burn 22.0 GPH (83 L/h)
TBO 1,500 hrs
Overhaul Cost $38,000
Annual Fixed $25,000
Hourly Variable $280
Engines 2 x Reciprocating

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Piper Twin Comanche

Cessna 310

Fuel$121/hr
Variable$280/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $81,000/yr

Which Should You Buy: Piper Twin Comanche or Cessna 310?

Bottom line: Choose the 310 for higher cruise, a larger cabin and a bigger fleet. Choose the Twin Comanche for the lowest piston-twin operating cost and efficient cruising, when the smaller cabin and speed are acceptable.

Pick the Twin Comanche if…

  • Longer range — 1000 nm vs 800 nm.

Pick the 310 if…

  • Budget matters — from $19,000 vs $105,000, you save ~$86,000.
  • More seats — 5 vs 4.
  • Faster cruise — 190 kts vs 155 kts.
  • More inventory — 48 listings vs 26.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Piper Twin Comanche or Cessna 310?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Twin Comanche cruises at 155 kts with 1,000 nm range. The 310 cruises at 190 kts with 800 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Twin Comanche: from $130,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Piper Twin Comanche and Cessna 310?
310 engine: Continental O-470-B;O-470-M (240 hp). Seats: 4 vs 5. Cruise: 155 vs 190 kts. Range: 1000 vs 800 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
310: about $280/hr variable cost. 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?
Twin Comanche: 4 seats. 310: 5 seats / 1,700 lb 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?
310: 1,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$38,000. 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