Robin DR400 vs Piper Archer

The DR400 and Piper Archer are low-wing four-seat tourers — the DR400 lighter and faster (wood), the Archer roomier and metal.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Robin DR400
For sale now
25
Median asking
$96,611
Range
$53,700–$195,472
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
13
Source marketplaces
7
Model years available
1972–2020
Piper Archer
For sale now
89
Median asking
$149,000
Range
$71,000–$491,439
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
26
Source marketplaces
13
Model years available
1965–2026

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)Robin DR400Piper Archer
All events9
Serious0
Fatal6
Fatalities16
% Fatal67%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Robin DR400 Piper Archer
Median $96,611
Piper Archer
View 90 listings →
Median $149,000
Price Range $53,700 – $195,472 $71,000 – $491,439
Category Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Cruise Speed 124 kts (230 km/h)
Range 703 nm (1,302 km)
Max Gross Weight 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg)

Which Should You Buy: Robin DR400 or Piper Archer?

Bottom line: Choose the Archer for a roomy metal cabin and Piper support; choose the DR400 for higher cruise and lighter handling (wooden structure care). Archer = cabin/metal/support; DR400 = speed/handling.

Pick the DR400 if…

  • Budget matters — from $53,700 vs $71,000, you save ~$17,300.

Pick the Archer 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, Robin DR400 or Piper Archer?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Archer cruises at 124 kts with 703 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Archer: from $110,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Robin DR400 and Piper Archer?
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