When people evaluate an aircraft, the first number they usually look at is speed.
However, for real aircraft ownership, operating cost often becomes the most important factor. Many aircraft that appear attractive on paper become difficult to use regularly because of fuel consumption and maintenance costs.
For example, aircraft powered by traditional high-displacement engines can consume more than 60 liters of fuel per hour, which significantly increases the cost of every flight.
Modern aircraft powered by efficient engines such as the Rotax 916 offer a different economic model. Lower fuel consumption, the ability to use widely available automotive fuel, and longer service intervals can dramatically change the economics of personal aviation.
When operating costs remain close to the cost of driving a car, pilots are much more likely to fly regularly rather than keeping the aircraft parked in a hangar.