310R vs DA42-VI
The 310R leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Put the Cessna / Textron Aviation 310R (introduced 1975) beside the Diamond Aircraft DA42-VI (introduced 2002) and the trade-offs sharpen fast. Both are piston twins, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the 310R carries more passengers. Below we compare them spec by spec, then break down which aircraft suits which mission.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
310R vs DA42-VI: the key differences
- The DA42-VI delivers 28% more range (310R: 800 nm; DA42-VI: 1,020 nm).
- The 310R delivers 3% more cruise speed (310R: 191 kt; DA42-VI: 185 kt).
- The 310R delivers 50% more passenger capacity (310R: 6 seats; DA42-VI: 4 seats).
- The DA42-VI is the newer design (introduced 2002 versus 1975 for the 310R), a gap of 27 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The 310R is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (5,500 lbs versus 4,078 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The DA42-VI is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,020 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The 310R, at 800 nm, is better matched to short-haul and regional hops, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the 310R's range, the DA42-VI's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the DA42-VI when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 310R when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 310R holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
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310R vs DA42-VI: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 310R or the DA42-VI?
The DA42-VI has the longer published range — 1,020 nm versus 800 nm for the 310R.
Does the 310R or DA42-VI seat more passengers?
The 310R carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 6 seats, compared with 4 on the DA42-VI.
Which is faster, the 310R or the DA42-VI?
The 310R cruises faster, at 191 kt versus 185 kt for the DA42-VI.
Which is newer, the 310R or the DA42-VI?
The DA42-VI is the newer design, introduced in 2002 versus 1975 for the 310R.
Is the 310R or the DA42-VI the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the 310R is the larger aircraft — 5,500 lbs versus 4,078 lbs for the DA42-VI.
Should I buy the 310R or the DA42-VI?
Choose the DA42-VI when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 310R when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 310R holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the 310R vs DA42-VI?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.