310R vs PA-23 Aztec F
The 310R leads, topping 4 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Cessna / Textron Aviation 310R (introduced 1975) against the Piper Aircraft PA-23 Aztec F (introduced 1976) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are piston twins, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is range, where the PA-23 Aztec F has the advantage. undefined
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310R vs PA-23 Aztec F: the key differences
- The PA-23 Aztec F delivers 25% more range (310R: 800 nm; PA-23 Aztec F: 1,000 nm).
- The 310R delivers 9% more cruise speed (310R: 191 kt; PA-23 Aztec F: 175 kt).
- The 310R and PA-23 Aztec F are evenly matched on passenger capacity, both at 6 seats.
- The PA-23 Aztec F is the newer design (introduced 1976 versus 1975 for the 310R), a gap of 1 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 5,200 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The PA-23 Aztec F is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,000 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 PA-23 Aztec F's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the PA-23 Aztec F 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 PA-23 Aztec F: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 310R or the PA-23 Aztec F?
The PA-23 Aztec F has the longer published range — 1,000 nm versus 800 nm for the 310R.
Which is faster, the 310R or the PA-23 Aztec F?
The 310R cruises faster, at 191 kt versus 175 kt for the PA-23 Aztec F.
Which is newer, the 310R or the PA-23 Aztec F?
The PA-23 Aztec F is the newer design, introduced in 1976 versus 1975 for the 310R.
Is the 310R or the PA-23 Aztec F the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the 310R is the larger aircraft — 5,500 lbs versus 5,200 lbs for the PA-23 Aztec F.
Should I buy the 310R or the PA-23 Aztec F?
Choose the PA-23 Aztec F 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 PA-23 Aztec F?
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.