When it comes to homebuilt aircraft, Van’s Aircraft sets the gold standard—and among their lineup, the RV-8 and RV-3B stand out as top choices for sport and aerobatic flying. But which one is the better fit for you? Having built and flown both models, I’m excited to share a detailed, experience-based comparison to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a first-time builder or an experienced pilot looking for a new challenge, this guide will break down everything you need to know.
Basic Specs: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Here’s a quick overview of the key specifications: RV-8: Two-seat tandem, larger airframe, 200+ mph cruise speed RV-3B: Single-seat, compact and lightweight, ~190 mph cruise speed Both: All-metal construction, excellent aerobatic capabilities, proven Van’s design While the specs are similar in some ways, they hint at deeper differences in mission and feel.
Building Experience: Which Is Easier to Assemble?
RV-8 Build Complexity
The RV-8 is a larger aircraft with more systems to install (e.g., dual controls, larger fuel tanks). This means more time and, at times, more frustration—especially if you’re building solo.
RV-3B Build Simplicity
The RV-3B is smaller and more straightforward. Its single-seat design eliminates many complexities, but because it’s less common, some builders report fewer support resources compared to the RV-8.
Flight Characteristics: How Do They Compare in the Air?
RV-8 Flight Feel
The RV-8 offers stable, predictable handling and is perfect for both cross-country flying and aerobatics. It’s often described as “sporty but forgiving.”
RV-3B Flight Feel
The RV-3B is pure fun—a true pilot’s airplane. Its light weight and responsive controls make it incredibly agile. It demands more attention, but rewards skilled flying with unmatched precision.
Mission Suitability: What’s Your Goal?
Want to fly with a passenger? ➔ RV-8 Prefer solo aerobatics and raw flying joy? ➔ RV-3B Planning long cross-country trips? ➔ RV-8’s extra room and fuel capacity shine Looking for a lightweight, minimalist build? ➔ RV-3B
Cost and Maintenance Considerations
The RV-8 generally costs more to build and maintain due to its size and dual systems. The RV-3B is more budget-friendly, but both require regular inspections and care to maintain peak performance.
Community and Support
The RV-8 enjoys a larger builder and pilot community, which means more resources, forums, and meetups. The RV-3B community is smaller but tight-knit—great if you like being part of a more exclusive group.
My Personal Recommendation
After building and flying both, here’s my take: If you’re new to experimental aviation and want maximum flexibility, the RV-8 is hard to beat. If you’re experienced and crave a pure flying experience without compromise, the RV-3B is unbeatable for hands-on joy. Both are fantastic aircraft—you really can’t go wrong.
Explore Detailed Build Logs and Guides
For a deeper dive into my experiences with both planes, check out these detailed build sections:
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