THORP T-18

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The Thorp T-18 is a highly popular two-place homebuilt aircraft renowned for its impressive speed, with a top speed of 200 mph and a cruise speed of 175 mph.
  • Its exceptional speed is attributed to a clean and streamlined monoplane design, featuring a tight cowling, sleek canopy, clean exterior metalwork, and light weight.
  • Key specifications include a gross weight of 1,500 lbs, a wingspan of 20'10", and a range of 500 miles.
  • The designer, John Thorp, has removed the plans for the T-18 from the market.
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STANDARD DATA: Gross wt. 1,500. Empty wt. 900. Fuel capacity 29. Wingspan 20’10”. Length 18′.
PERFORMANCE: Top mph 200. Cruise mph 175. Stall mph 65. Climb rate 2,000. Takeoff run 300. Landing roll 900. Range 500.

The Thorp T-18 is without a doubt one of the most popular homebuilts in existence. This two-place speedster can wring 160 mph out of a 125-hp engine. Its monoplane design with slightly upturned wings is clean and streamlined in appearance. A tight cowling, sleek canopy, very clean exterior metalwork, and light weight help explain its speed. John Thorp, designer of the T-18, removed the plans from the market.

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