Piper Twin Comanche vs Piper Aztec

The Piper Twin Comanche (PA-30/39) and Aztec (PA-23-250) are different-class Piper twins — the Twin Comanche is the light, efficient, economical twin; the Aztec is the bigger, rugged load-hauler.

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
Piper Aztec
For sale now
30
Median asking
$152,000
Range
$52,467–$313,500
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
9
Source marketplaces
8
Model years available
1965–1979

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 ComanchePiper Aztec
All events2
Serious0
Fatal0
Fatalities0
% Fatal0%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Piper Twin Comanche Piper Aztec
Piper Twin Comanche
View 26 listings →
Median $143,000
Piper Aztec
View 30 listings →
Median $152,000
Price Range $105,000 – $210,000 $52,467 – $313,500
Category Multi Engine Piston Multi Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 4 6
Cruise Speed 155 kts (287 km/h) 149 kts (276 km/h)
Range 1,000 nm (1,852 km) 1,320 nm (2,445 km)
Max Gross Weight 3,725 lbs (1,690 kg) 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg)

Which Should You Buy: Piper Twin Comanche or Piper Aztec?

Bottom line: Choose the Twin Comanche for the most economical piston-twin flying and efficient cruise. Choose the Aztec for cabin size, load-hauling and rugged utility — when payload matters more than fuel economy.

Pick the Twin Comanche if…

  • Faster cruise — 155 kts vs 149 kts.

Pick the Aztec if…

  • Budget matters — from $52,467 vs $105,000, you save ~$52,533.
  • More seats — 6 vs 4.
  • Longer range — 1320 nm vs 1000 nm.
  • More inventory — 30 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 Piper Aztec?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Twin Comanche cruises at 155 kts with 1,000 nm range. The Aztec cruises at 149 kts with 1,320 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Twin Comanche: from $130,000. Piper Aztec: from $50,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Piper Twin Comanche and Piper Aztec?
Seats: 4 vs 6. Cruise: 155 vs 149 kts. Range: 1000 vs 1320 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?
Twin Comanche: 4 seats. Aztec: 6 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