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| STANDARD DATA (original 7AC): Seats: 2. Gross weight (lbs.): 1220. Empty weight (lbs.): 740. Fuel capacity (gals.): 13. Engine: 65 hp Continental. PERFORMANCE: Top speed (mph): 95. Cruise speed (mph): 85. Stall speed (mph): 38. Initial climb rate (fpm): 370. Range (nm): 270. Service ceiling (ft.): 12,500. Takeoff distance, 50 ft. (ft.): 632. Landing distance, 50 ft. (ft.): 885. STANDARD DATA (7AC): Seats: 2. Gross weight (lbs.): 1300. Empty weight (lbs.): 810. Fuel capacity (gals.): 18.5. Engine: 85 hp Continental. STANDARD DATA (7EC): Seats: 2. Gross weight (lbs.): 1450. Empty weight (lbs.): 820. Fuel capacity (gals.): 18.5–24. Engine: 90 hp Continental. |
Though similar to the prewar L-3, the Champion is in reality a tandem version of the Chief series. The original Champ, which first flew in 1944, was powered by a 65-hp Continental engine and was designated the 7AC. The design proved to be popular, and Aeronca increased the plane’s power rating to 85 hp before the Champion Aircraft Corp. acquired the tooling and rights to the design in 1951. Over 10,000 Model 7s were turned out by Aeronca between 1946 and 1951. In 1955, the Champion firm reinstituted production of the 90 hp version, the Model 7EC Traveller. Production continued with minor refinements until 1964 when production tapered off in favor of the 7ECA, a further improved version of the original airframe.
