PlaneFox tracks 1 Taifun 17E aircraft for sale and re-reads every one of them from the broker and dealer sites it watches, so the figures below move when the market moves. Every number on this page is measured from those live listings, not taken from a published price guide.
The Valentin Taifun 17E is a German two seat touring motor glider built by Valentin Flugzeugbau. The type first flew in 1981 and production ran through the 1980s, with a relatively small fleet compared with mainstream training aircraft. It is a low wing, T tail aircraft with a 17 meter wing, intended for pilots who want efficient cross country flying with soaring capability rather than a conventional light airplane. Its significance is in combining sailplane influenced aerodynamics, side by side seating and practical self launch touring use in one airframe.
Typical Valentin Taifun 17E performance reflects its motor glider role. Cruise is commonly quoted around 90 knots, with long range capability of roughly 500 nautical miles when operated as a powered touring aircraft. Published service ceiling figures are around 16,000 feet. Power is normally from a Limbach L 2000 series four cylinder air cooled engine of about 80 hp, driving a two blade propeller. Maximum takeoff weight is approximately 1,650 lb, but useful load varies materially by individual empty weight, equipment fit and national certification, so buyers should rely on the aircraft weight and balance data rather than generic figures.
The cabin seats two occupants side by side, a notable distinction from many tandem motor gliders. Visibility is good under the broad canopy, while baggage and cabin width are modest by light aircraft standards. The panel is usually simple and VFR oriented, with engine instruments, airspeed, altimeter, variometer and basic navigation equipment. Most aircraft predate glass cockpit systems such as Garmin G1000 or Garmin Perspective. Common used examples may have upgraded radios, Mode S transponders, portable or panel mounted GPS units, FLARM in soaring markets and modern electronic variometers.
Prospective buyers should evaluate the Valentin Taifun 17E as a specialist aircraft, not as a direct substitute for a Cessna or Piper trainer. Key inspection areas include composite structure condition, canopy fit and transparency, landing gear system condition, control rigging, engine hours, propeller condition and documentation for any avionics or engine modifications. Parts support, maintenance familiarity and applicable airworthiness requirements vary by country, making logbook completeness especially important. On the used market, the type is typically positioned as a capable touring motor glider for experienced private owners seeking low fuel burn, soaring utility and distinctive handling, rather than high payload or intensive flight school use.