Just my 2 cents:
Since you are first-time, full-scale builders, I think most of us would recommend going the ?quick-build,? or, more accurately, ?quicker-build? route. Build speed varies drastically from fast builders who only take a year or two with even a ?slow-build? kit to slow builders like me (6 years and counting) who are slow despite purchasing a ?quick-build? kit. From what I can see, build speed is a function of many variables including building experience and aptitude, level of perfectionism, propensity/skill to modify, finances available, personal time available to build, building space, availability of experienced RV builders to help, tool type and availability, etc., etc., etc.! In other words, you, along with an experienced RV builder as a consultant, are probably the best judge(s) relative to how long it might take you to build and fly an RV.
If you don?t already have your pilot license(s), you might want to get that (those) first! Personally, I would recommend that you obtain your private pilot license(s) via a taildragger, if at all possible. If you already have your license(s), but only have nosewheel time, you might want to get your taildragger endorsement before deciding to go the RV-8 route.
Both the RV-8 and RV-8A are fine airplanes; both fly great. The main differences are looks, taxiing, and landing. Check-out their specs, performance, etc. at
www.vansaircraft.com. Most Important of All: Go to Van?s in Aurora and fly both; call ahead first.
I would strongly recommend that you ignore the personal RV-8 vs. RV-8A opinions/biases offered here. We?re somehow all trying to trumpet and justify our own decisions! It?s very important that you make your own decision. You?ve got to live, build, and fly with it!
Good Luck!
Bill Palmer
Chino Hills, CA
RV-8A Finishing Kit