1959 Piper PA-24-250 Comanche Offered For $109,000 With Modern Avionics and Classic Appeal

The 1959 Piper PA-24-250 Comanche showcases the timeless appeal of classic general aviation aircraft combined with practical updates for contemporary use. This low-wing single-engine airplane is recognized for its efficient design and strong performance in the touring aircraft category. It promises a balance of speed, payload capacity, and pilot-friendly features that made it a popular choice among pilots of its era and continues to attract aviation enthusiasts today.

This particular Comanche has undergone substantial modernization of its flight deck, which significantly enhances situational awareness and ease of use. Outfitted with a Garmin GPS 175 WAAS navigator, the aircraft benefits from precise navigational capabilities compatible with current airspace requirements. Augmenting the primary navigator, dual Garmin G5 units provide essential attitude and directional information by serving as the artificial horizon and horizontal situation indicator. These upgrades replace the older, less intuitive analog gauges with easy-to-read digital displays, while a Bendix/King nav/comm radio remains as a reliable backup communication system.

Powering the aircraft is a robust Lycoming O-540-A1A5 engine, noted for its reliability and enduring performance in general aviation. The engine has accumulated 1,329 hours since its last major overhaul, indicating significant remaining life and dependable operation. Engine health is further evidenced by strong cylinder compression readings ranging from 70 to 78 psi across all six cylinders. Recent maintenance includes replacement of five cylinders, along with a new battery, alternator, starter, and spark plugs, underscoring the commitment to keeping the engine in optimal condition.

The aircraft’s propeller is an upgraded three-blade model that has logged only 312 hours since its overhaul, enhancing thrust efficiency and contributing to the Comanche's characteristic cruise speeds. Complementing this powerplant setup is a comprehensive engine monitoring system, the Electronics International Ultimate Engine Analyzer, which tracks key parameters such as exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) and cylinder head temperatures (CHTs). Such detailed monitoring supports safe and efficient engine operation, particularly during demanding cross-country flights.

With a total airframe time of 3,193 hours, this Comanche displays sound structural integrity for an airplane over six decades old. Its maintenance history is impeccable, with complete logbooks tracing back to the original delivery in 1959. Most of its life has been spent hangared, preserving both the airframe and exterior finish, which retains an attractive, original paint scheme rated 8 out of 10. The cabin interior remains largely original as well, showing a well-kept four-seat configuration with a condition rating of approximately 7 out of 10.

This Comanche stands out among vintage offerings not only because of its condition but also for its spacious cabin cross section. It offers generous shoulder room and extended legroom compared to contemporaries, making it well-suited for longer trips. Comfortable ergonomic seating combined with a substantial baggage compartment allows it to serve effectively as a family cruiser or personal cross-country traveler, maintaining relevance even in today’s general aviation market.

The aircraft has also been diligently maintained with all applicable airworthiness directives complied with, and a fresh annual inspection performed for 2026. Practical touches such as an Aussie horn STC add to the aircraft’s completeness and ongoing functionality. Such details reflect a level of ownership that goes beyond preservation, aiming to deliver reliable and enjoyable operation to the next pilot.

Priced at $109,000, this 1959 Piper Comanche 250 offers a unique blend of period charm, modern avionics, and proven mechanical condition. It represents a rare opportunity to acquire a complex, capable single-engine aircraft well suited to cross-country trips, with the comfort and performance characteristics that made the Comanche series a beloved icon among private pilots. Prospective buyers looking for a vintage aircraft with current-day practicality will find this Comanche compelling and ready for immediate use.