Vans RV-9 vs Vans RV-7

The Van's RV-9 and RV-7 are side-by-side two-seaters with different missions — the RV-9 has a longer, more efficient wing optimised for cross-country and benign handling (non-aerobatic); the RV-7 is the shorter-wing aerobatic-capable sport two-seater.

Live Market Snapshot

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

Vans RV-9
For sale now
3
Source marketplaces
2
Model years available
2004–2004
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-9Vans RV-7
All events15
Serious00
Fatal13
Fatalities14
% Fatal100%60%
View full Vans RV-9 NTSB record →View full Vans RV-7 NTSB record →

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Vans RV-9 Vans RV-7
Vans RV-9
View 3 listings →
Median $150,000
 Vans RV-7
View 11 listings →
Median $140,000
Price Range $142,264 – $193,650 $111,750 – $248,048
Category Experimental Experimental
Model Specifications
Seats 1 2
Cruise Speed 160 kts (296 km/h) 173 kts (320 km/h)
Range — 673 nm (1,246 km)
Max Gross Weight — 1,800 lbs (816 kg)
Fuel Burn 6.0 GPH (23 L/h) —
TBO 2,000 hrs —
Overhaul Cost $20,000 —
Annual Fixed $10,000 —
Hourly Variable $85 —
Engines 1 x Piston 1 x Piston

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Vans RV-9

Fuel$33/hr
Variable$85/hr
Annual Fixed$10,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $27,000/yr

Vans RV-7

Which Should You Buy: Vans RV-9 or Vans RV-7?

Bottom line: Choose the RV-7 for aerobatic capability and sportier handling. Choose the RV-9 for the most efficient, docile cross-country touring and easy handling — when aerobatics aren't part of the mission.

Pick the RV-9 if…

Pick the RV-7 if…

  • Budget matters — from $111,750 vs $142,264, you save ~$30,514.
  • More seats — 2 vs 1.
  • Faster cruise — 173 kts vs 160 kts.
  • Newer design — production from 2001 vs 1997.
  • More inventory — 11 listings vs 3.

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-9 or Vans RV-7?
It depends on your mission and budget. The RV-9 cruises at 160 kts. 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-9: from $150,000. 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-9 and Vans RV-7?
Seats: 1 vs 2. Cruise: 160 vs 173 kts.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
RV-9: about $85/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-9: 1 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-9: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$20,000. 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