Vans RV-8 vs Vans RV-7

The Van's RV-8 and RV-7 are the two-seat performance RVs in different layouts — the RV-8 is the tandem (fighter-style) sport-aerobatic taildragger; the RV-7 is the side-by-side two-seater.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Vans RV-8
For sale now
12
Median asking
$165,000
Range
$125,360–$239,615
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
1
Source marketplaces
5
Model years available
2001–2021
Vans RV-7
For sale now
11
Median asking
$140,000
Range
$111,750–$248,048
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
4
Source marketplaces
8
Model years available
2005–2025

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)Vans RV-8Vans RV-7
All events55
Serious00
Fatal23
Fatalities34
% Fatal40%60%
View full Vans RV-8 NTSB record →View full Vans RV-7 NTSB record →

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Vans RV-8 Vans RV-7
Vans RV-8
View 11 listings →
Median $165,000
 Vans RV-7
View 11 listings →
Median $140,000
Price Range $125,360 – $239,615 $111,750 – $248,048
Category Experimental Experimental
Model Specifications
Seats 2 2
Cruise Speed 173 kts (320 km/h) 173 kts (320 km/h)
Range 686 nm (1,270 km) 673 nm (1,246 km)
Max Gross Weight 1,800 lbs (816 kg) 1,800 lbs (816 kg)
Fuel Burn 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) —
TBO 2,000 hrs —
Overhaul Cost $25,000 —
Annual Fixed $10,000 —
Hourly Variable $100 —
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Vans RV-8

Fuel$50/hr
Variable$100/hr
Annual Fixed$10,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $30,000/yr

Vans RV-7

Which Should You Buy: Vans RV-8 or Vans RV-7?

Bottom line: Choose the RV-8 for the tandem "fighter" feel and crisp sport-aerobatic handling. Choose the RV-7 for side-by-side seating (better for shared flying and instruction) with very similar performance. Same superb RV build/support either way.

Pick the RV-8 if…

  • Longer range — 686 nm vs 673 nm.

Pick the RV-7 if…

  • Budget matters — from $111,750 vs $125,360, you save ~$13,610.
  • Newer design — production from 2001 vs 1979.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Vans RV-8 or Vans RV-7?
It depends on your mission and budget. The RV-8 cruises at 173 kts with 686 nm range. The RV-7 cruises at 173 kts with 673 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Vans RV-8: from $119,000. Vans RV-7: from $349,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Vans RV-8 and Vans RV-7?
Cruise: 173 vs 173 kts. Range: 686 vs 673 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
RV-8: about $100/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?
RV-8: 2 seats. RV-7: 2 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?
RV-8: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$25,000. 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