Vans RV8 vs Glasair III
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Vans RV8
- For sale now
- 1
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 1
- Model years available
- 2015–2015
Glasair III
- For sale now
- 5
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 3
- Source marketplaces
- 3
- Model years available
- 1977–2002
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 RV8 | Glasair III |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 23 | 2 |
| Serious | 4 | 1 |
| Fatal | 5 | 1 |
| Fatalities | 6 | 1 |
| % Fatal | 22% | 50% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Vans RV8 | Glasair III |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $225,698 | $215,500 – $336,100 |
| Category | Experimental | Experimental |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | 1 |
| Cruise Speed | 173 kts (320 km/h) | 190 kts (352 km/h) |
| Range | — | 1,100 nm (2,037 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 2,400 lbs (1,089 kg) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 2 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Vans RV8 or Glasair III?
Pick the RV8 if…
- Newer design — production from 1995 vs 1994.
Pick the III if…
- Budget matters — from $215,500 vs $225,698, you save ~$10,198.
- Faster cruise — 190 kts vs 173 kts.
- More inventory — 2 listings vs 1.
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 RV8 or Glasair III?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The RV8 cruises at 173 kts.
The III cruises at 190 kts with 1,100 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Vans RV8: from $223,740.
Glasair III: from $215,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Vans RV8 and Glasair III?
Cruise: 173 vs 190 kts.
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?
RV8: 1 seats.
III: 1 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