Aircraft overview

The Daher Socata Rallye is a family of French light aircraft originally developed by Morane-Saulnier as the MS.880 Rallye, with first flight in 1959 and series production continuing under SOCATA into the 1980s. It is a fixed-gear, low-wing trainer and touring aircraft, typically seating two to four depending on variant. Its distinguishing feature is full-span automatic leading-edge slats, giving the Rallye notably benign low-speed handling and short-field capability. For buyers, the type matters because it offers simple construction, good visibility, forgiving handling, and a broad range of engines and equipment across the Rallye 100, 150, 180 and 235 lines.

Performance & specifications

Performance varies substantially by model. Common 150 hp and 180 hp versions typically cruise around 100-115 knots, while the higher-powered Rallye 235 is faster and better suited to towing or heavier touring use. Practical range is generally in the 400-600 nautical mile class, depending on fuel capacity, engine, loading and power setting. Useful load commonly falls around the 700-900 lb range, again variant- and equipment-dependent. Service ceiling is typically in the low-to-mid teens, with many models published around 13,000 feet. Powerplants include Continental and Lycoming piston engines, from 100 hp training versions through Lycoming O-320/O-360 installations and the 235 hp Lycoming O-540 in the Rallye 235.

Cabin & avionics

The Rallye cabin is compact but practical, with side-by-side front seating and, in many variants, rear seats suitable for smaller passengers or baggage trade-offs. Large glazed areas give excellent outward visibility, a useful trait for training, local flying and observation work. Most aircraft on the used market retain conventional analog flight instruments. Avionics are highly individual: typical fits may include modern VHF radios, Mode S transponders, Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, basic autopilot equipment where installed, and portable or panel-mounted GPS upgrades. Factory integrated suites such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective are not typical for the Rallye.

Buying & value

Buyers should verify the exact variant, engine model, propeller, weight-and-balance data, corrosion history, fabric or control-surface condition where applicable, landing-gear condition, and compliance with airframe and slat-system inspections. Engine time, parts availability, and documentation quality can strongly affect value. Common market distinctions include lower-powered Rallye 100 trainers, 150/180 hp touring versions, and the Rallye 235 for higher load and tow utility. In current PlaneFox used-market data, asking prices average about EUR 47,000, with examples ranging roughly from EUR 20,000 to EUR 90,000. This positions the Daher Socata Rallye as an affordable classic European light aircraft, with pricing driven more by condition, engine status and avionics than by model year alone.