Siai-Marchetti SF-260 vs Zlin Z-242
The Z-242L and SIAI-Marchetti SF.260 are military-grade piston trainers — the Z-242 rugged and aerobatic, the SF.260 faster and sleeker.
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) | SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 | Zlin Z-242 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 2 | — |
| Serious | 0 | — |
| Fatal | 2 | — |
| Fatalities | 3 | — |
| % Fatal | 100% | — |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 | Zlin Z-242 |
|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | — | — |
| Category | — | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Cruise Speed | 160 kts (296 km/h) | 116 kts (215 km/h) |
| Range | 890 nm (1,648 km) | 267 nm (494 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,646 lbs (1,200 kg) | 2,138 lbs (970 kg) |
Which Should You Buy: SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 or Zlin Z-242?
Bottom line: Choose the SF.260 for speed and fighter-like handling (retractable, faster); choose the Z-242L for rugged fixed-gear simplicity and lower cost. SF.260 = speed/retractable; Z-242 = rugged/value.
Pick the SF-260 if…
- Faster cruise — 160 kts vs 116 kts.
- Longer range — 890 nm vs 267 nm.
Pick the Z-242 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, SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 or Zlin Z-242?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The SF-260 cruises at 160 kts with 890 nm range.
The Z-242 cruises at 116 kts with 267 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between SIAI-Marchetti SF-260 and Zlin Z-242?
Cruise: 160 vs 116 kts.
Range: 890 vs 267 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