Piper Vagabond Aircraft (PA-15/17)

1 used Piper Vagabond aircraft for sale · from $52K · updated 12 hours ago

About the Piper Vagabond

The Piper Vagabond (PA-15 and PA-17) is a short-wing two-seat taildragger introduced in 1948, the airplane that launched Piper's postwar short-wing line leading to the Clipper and Pacer. Light, simple and economical, it seats two side-by-side on a stubby wing with a small Lycoming or Continental engine; the PA-17 added dual controls and a slightly softer landing gear. The Vagabond is a charming, affordable classic and a favorite among vintage taildragger owners.

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Piper Vagabond Specifications

Model spec

The Piper Vagabond is a single engine piston with a cruise speed of 78 kt (144 km/h), a range of 220 nm (407 km).

Performance
Cruise78 kt (144 km/h)
Max Speed87 kt (161 km/h)
Range220 nm (407 km)
Weights & Seats
Max Gross Weight1,100 lbs (499 kg)

1 Piper Vagabond For Sale

There are currently 1 used Piper Vagabond for sale, ranging from $52,500 to $52,500, with a median asking price of $52,500.

1948 Piper Vagabond

1948 Piper Vagabond for sale Overpriced
$52,500
For Sale
Total Time 1,900
Reg# N4571H US
Location Garysburg, NC
Via Billy Dickinson
Listed 2mo ago

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Piper Vagabond Price & Cost

How much does a Piper Vagabond cost? Used Vagabond prices: from $52K, across 1 priced of 1 active listings.

Piper Vagabond Price Guide
Market Deal RatingAeroGurus rating
Overpriced
100%
1

Based on 1 priced listings.

Key price factors: engine time to overhaul, year and airframe hours, avionics, damage history and logbook completeness — see the buying guide below for the full pre-purchase checklist.

Buying guides: Buyer's Guide | Financing Guide | Pre-Buy Inspection

Buying a Used Piper Vagabond

When buying a Piper Vagabond, the biggest value drivers are engine time since overhaul, maintenance-record completeness, damage history and avionics.

What to check before buying

  • Engine time to overhaul — hours and years remaining drive price more than total airframe time.
  • Logbook completeness — continuous, gap-free maintenance records protect value.
  • Damage history — any prior accident or incident; cross-check the registration against accident databases.
  • Avionics — a modern glass panel vs legacy steam gauges materially changes price.
  • Pre-buy inspection — always commission an independent inspection by a type-experienced mechanic before money changes hands.

Frequently Asked Questions — Piper Vagabond

How much does a used Piper Vagabond cost?
The Vagabond is an affordable entry into short-wing Piper ownership. See the live price range and median above; fabric and tube condition, engine time and originality drive value.
What is the difference between the PA-15 and PA-17 Vagabond?
Both are two-seat short-wing taildraggers. The PA-15 was the original economy version, while the PA-17 added dual controls and a bungee-sprung landing gear for a smoother ride, making it the slightly better-equipped variant.
Disclaimer: All prices, cost estimates, and market values shown are based on asking prices from third-party sources and are provided for informational purposes only. AeroGurus is not an appraiser, broker, or financial advisor. Always obtain a professional appraisal and independent inspection before making a purchase decision.
Listings last refreshed 12 hours ago · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data