Eight is enough?
Im just wondering what an average RV8 sells for with basic vfr panel and io-360?
Hey Jon,
Thread hijack notwithstanding, here's a long answer to your short question. I built my RV4 way back when when Dinosaurs roamed the taxiways and there were three relatively basic RV kits available (RV3,4,6). Years later when the Eight was introduced by Van, it was purportedly based on all the improvements us
Jurassic RV4 builders had mentioned over the years. One of the major improvements was the RV8 kit which was
much further refined in comparison with previous offerings. Compared with my 1989 RV4 kit it was downright advanced. CNC cut pre-punched skins, extruded spar, QB kit availability, bigger, better etc etc...
When the first ones started hitting the market the prices were much higher in comparison to the previous RV's, in fact nearly twice than a comparably equipped RV4. Having performed numerous RV8 pre-purchase inspections, deliveries and test flights my take was
"it's twice the price but not twice the airplane."
So, back to your question. Fair market value of a decent basic RV8? F-16 Fighter Weapons School answer:
It depends... Prices vary based on engine/prop, avionics, build quality and age.
$69K would be a good price for a 5-10 yr old (0-360/VFR, FP prop) example.
Some good questions...
1. Will you fly 100 hours per year?
2. What is your flight experience?
3. Why the RV-___?
4. What is your annual "airplane" budget?
Honestly, the RV4 is much more bang for your buck if you're buying.
If you are taller than 6', the Four gets "cozy" up front but I have RV4 customers over 6'4" we were able to accommodate.
If you just have to have an Eight, figure 25%-40% more cost, even with identical engine/prop. Yes, the Eight has more room, a forward baggage, advanced design (landing gear, canopy, fuselage) but doesn't fly one iota better than the RV4 IMHO.
Now, if you're building, the Eight is a great kit, improving every year and lots of corporate knowledge out there for assistance plus the QB option for the
time challenged.
Your call, but I know what I would buy...
V/R
Smokey