Vans RV8 vs Vans RV-4
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
Vans RV-4
- For sale now
- 6
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 2
- Source marketplaces
- 3
- Model years available
- 1987–2021
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 | Vans RV-4 |
|---|---|---|
| All events | 23 | 1 |
| Serious | 4 | 0 |
| Fatal | 5 | 1 |
| Fatalities | 6 | 1 |
| % Fatal | 22% | 100% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Vans RV8 | Vans RV-4 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $225,698 | $59,750 – $100,425 |
| Category | Experimental | Experimental |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | 2 |
| Cruise Speed | 173 kts (320 km/h) | 150 kts (278 km/h) |
| Range | — | 510 nm (945 km) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 1,500 lbs (680 kg) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Vans RV8 or Vans RV-4?
Pick the RV8 if…
- Faster cruise — 173 kts vs 150 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1995 vs 1979.
Pick the RV-4 if…
- Budget matters — from $59,750 vs $225,698, you save ~$165,948.
- More seats — 2 vs 1.
- More inventory — 6 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 Vans RV-4?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The RV8 cruises at 173 kts.
The RV-4 cruises at 150 kts with 510 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Vans RV8: from $223,740.
Vans RV-4: from $65,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Vans RV8 and Vans RV-4?
Seats: 1 vs 2.
Cruise: 173 vs 150 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.
RV-4: 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?
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