Difference between RV8 and RV8-A ?

[Acat]

Hi,
Brand new here,
What is the difference between the RV8 and the RV8-A ?

[Dugaru]

Welcome aboard! The -A designation indicates a nosewheel RV. No "A," it's a taildragger.

Originally Posted by Acat

Hi,
Brand new here,
What is the difference between the RV8 and the RV8-A ?

[nzrv8]

The 8 is a tailwheel design, and the 8A has a nose wheel instead. Performance for both is the same. Opinions on sex appeal will differ

[Dan 57]

Performance for both is the same

That sure can’t be… just bravely sitting on the ground one is already faster than the other

[BobTurner]

But, for completeness, the RV-10 is the exception to the rule. No ‘A’ but it has a nose wheel. Little confusion as Vans doesn’t sell a 10 in a tail wheel version.

[bifft]

For a little more detail, the 8A will be a little bit lighter for the same engine and panel, you have a bit more foot/leg room in the front (width) because the "gear towers" aren't there. The -8 is probably a little bit better at rough unpaved fields but neither is a hard core STOL machine.

Most (including me) think the -8 looks better on the ground, but in the 8A you can see better when taxing. Nose wheel usually means cheaper insurance.

Both should look/feel the same from inside while in the air.

[scrollF4]

Originally Posted by BobTurner

But, for completeness, the RV-10 is the exception to the rule. No ‘A’ but it has a nose wheel. Little confusion as Vans doesn’t sell a 10 in a tail wheel version.

And the RV-12. Only comes in a nose-gear configuration, no taildragger.

[Mel]

Originally Posted by BobTurner

But, for completeness, the RV-10 is the exception to the rule. No ‘A’ but it has a nose wheel. Little confusion as Vans doesn’t sell a 10 in a tail wheel version.

And don't forget, the RV-9 started out that way! Very early RV-9s were tricycle gear without the "A".

[RV8JD]

Good summary from Van's of the RV-8 and RV-8A, with links to Aircraft Specs and Performance Details of each variant:

https://www.vansaircraft.com/rv-8/