TYPE: Two-seat lightplane.
PROGRAMME: Model 7AC Champion was initial production version (7,200 built with Continental A-65 engine) from 1945 onwards; Model 7ACA Champ certified 30 April 1971 with 44.7 kW (60 hp) Franklin engine, but only 71 built by Bellanca.
American Champion proposing relaunch with 59.7 kW (80 hp) Jabiru 2200 flat-four; new-build prototype (N82AC) displayed at Oshkosh in July 2000, shortly after first flight; will remain experimental while company explores demand. Target maximum take-off weight is 533 to 559 kg (1,220 to 1,232 lb) and maximum level speed 100 kt (185 km/h; 115 mph); cost estimated in region of US$60,000 (2000 prices), or US$45,000 for quick-build kit, if offered. At Sun 'n' Fun, in April 2002, the company confirmed that investigations were continuing, with emphasis then on propeller optimisation.