1963 Hamilton Tool Company W8 Tailwind
| Asking Price | £40,000 |
|---|---|
| Location | South West, United Kingdom |
| Seller | Wilco Aviation Limited |
| First seen | 2026-10-10 |
| Updated | 2026-10-10 |
Also for sale at: Afors
Specifications
Airframe
| Year | 1963 |
|---|---|
| Registration | G-BDBD |
| Total Time | 2,394 h |
| Annual / ARC | 12/04/2027 |
Engine & Propeller
| Engine | Continental O-200-A |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Piston |
| Power | 100 hp |
| Time Since Overhaul | 900 h |
Performance
| Cruise Speed | 130 kts |
|---|---|
| Max Speed | 156 kts |
| Climb Rate | 800 fpm |
Weights & Fuel
| Max Takeoff Weight | 657 kg |
|---|---|
| Useful Load | 254 kg |
| Max Ramp Weight | 657 kg |
| Fuel Capacity | 95 L |
| Seats | 2 |
Description
Wilco Aviation is pleased to exclusively offer this 1963 Wittman W8 Tailwind, registration G-BDBD. Currently based at a private airstrip in the South West of England, viewings can be arranged by prior appointment.
G-BDBD has recently emerged from an extensive 12-year, complete rebuild, during which virtually every aspect of the aircraft was rebuilt, renewed or refurbished. The result is an exceptionally well-presented example of this distinctive and highly capable design.
Powered by the proven Continental O-200 100 hp engine, G-BDBD combines strong performance with straightforward maintenance and economical operating costs. The aircraft is fitted with a comprehensive modern instrument and avionics installation, providing a well-equipped and practical cockpit for local flying, touring and longer-distance operation.
Despite its compact dimensions, the Wittman Tailwind offers remarkable performance. G-BDBD is capable of almost reaching its VNE of 156 knots in level flight, while still providing economical cruise options. At approximately 130 knots, fuel consumption is around 24 litres per hour, reducing to approximately 15 litres per hour at a more relaxed cruise speed of 100 knots.
The aircraft’s average rate of climb to 5,000 feet is approximately 800 feet per minute at 100 knots. The clean stall speed is approximately 52 knots, reducing to around 41 knots with full flap.
G-BDBD has a useful payload of approximately 560 lb and a fuel capacity of 95 litres, making it a practical and efficient two-seat touring aircraft. The cockpit has also been modified to improve comfort for taller occupants. The current owner, at 6 ft 1 in and approximately 200 lb, reports being comfortable in the aircraft.
The aircraft is currently operated from a 500-metre grass airstrip. Landing performance is excellent; however, at heavier operating weights and in nil-wind conditions, the current coarse-pitch Evra propeller means that 500 metres may be insufficient for take-off. As with any aircraft, take-off performance must be carefully assessed against weight, surface, wind, temperature and airfield conditions.
The Wittman Tailwind is a popular two-seat light aircraft designed specifically for amateur construction. It is a high-wing, braced cabin monoplane featuring a conventional tailwheel undercarriage. Its construction combines a strong steel-tube fuselage with wooden wings and fabric covering, resulting in a lightweight and efficient aircraft capable of impressive cruising speeds while remaining economical to own, operate and maintain.
Avionics & Equipment
Garmin GNS 530 (8.33kHz) NAV/COM,Garmin GMA 330 (Mode S) Transponder,Flightcom 403mc intercom,Talos AHARS (supplies wired tablet),Air Speed Indicator (ASI),Artificial Horizon,Altimeter,Flight Data System FC-10 electronic fuel computer,Oil pressure gauge,Oil temperature gauge,Voltage meter,Ampere meter,Exhaust Gas Temperature gauge (EGT),USB output,Compass,Electric flaps,NAV/Strobe wingtip lights
Photos
