Comparing Cessna Models: 182, 172, and 152
The Cessna 152, Cessna 172, and Cessna 182 are renowned for their reliability and versatility in the world of single-engine aircraft. Each model caters to different needs, making them popular choices for various aviation purposes.
## Cessna 152: A Training Stalwart
First introduced in the late 1970s, the Cessna 152 is a two-seat, single-engine aircraft designed primarily for flight training and private flying. Known for its simplicity and fuel efficiency, the 152 boasts a maximum speed of about 126 mph (203 km/h) and a range of approximately 414 miles (666 km).
The market value for used Cessna 152 models varies, ranging from $15,000 to $50,000, depending on the condition and age of the aircraft. A variant of the Cessna 152, called the 152 Acrobat, is a popular entry-level acrobatic trainer.
## Cessna 172: The World's Most Popular Aircraft
First introduced in 1956, the Cessna 172 is a four-seat, single-engine aircraft that has become one of the most popular general aviation planes worldwide. It is widely used for both training and personal flying, and it holds the record for training more pilots than any other aircraft in history.
The Cessna 172 offers a balance of performance and capacity, with a cruise speed of about 140 mph (225 km/h) and a range of around 640 miles (1,030 km). Prices for used Cessna 172 models can vary widely, typically ranging from $60,000 to $200,000, depending on the specific model year and equipment.
## Cessna 182: Robustness and Versatility
First introduced in the 1950s, the Cessna 182 is a four-seat, single-engine aircraft that offers more power and performance compared to the Cessna 172. It is known for its robustness and versatility.
The Cessna 182 has a cruise speed of about 150 mph (240 km/h) and a range of approximately 915 miles (1,470 km). Prices for used Cessna 182 models can range from $99,000 to over $350,000, depending on the model year, engine, and additional features such as advanced avionics.
A new Cessna 182 will cost around $500,000, with 2004 era models coming in at about $250,000. In 1997, the Cessna 182 underwent a significant upgrade with the introduction of the 182S, which replaced the old Continental Engine with a Lycoming IO-540, improved the aircraft styling, interior, and avionics.
## Comparison Summary
| **Model** | **Seats** | **Max Speed** | **Range** | **Market Value** | |-----------|----------|---------------|------------|-----------------| | Cessna 152 | 2 | 126 mph | 414 miles | $15,000-$50,000 | | Cessna 172 | 4 | 140 mph | 640 miles | $60,000-$200,000| | Cessna 182 | 4 | 150 mph | 915 miles | $99,000-$350,000|
The Cessna 152 is ideal for training and personal flying due to its simplicity, the Cessna 172 is popular for its balance of performance and capacity, and the Cessna 182 offers more power and range for those needing a robust single-engine aircraft.
The Cessna aircraft brand has dominated the sector of the aviation industry for decades, with the Cessna 182, 172, and 152 being the most popular high-wing piston engine models. The Cessna 172 is the most popular aircraft in history, with over 44,000 produced. Over 7,500 Cessna 152 aircraft have been sold, many of which remain in service today, primarily as flight training aircraft.
- The private pilot market appreciates the Cessna 152, a two-seat aircraft, for its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and affordability, with used models ranging from $15,000 to $50,000.
- The aerospace industry recognizes the Cessna 172, a four-seat aircraft, as the most popular general aviation plane worldwide, with over 44,000 produced, and prices for used models typically ranging from $60,000 to $200,000.
- The transportation and finance sectors value the Cessna 182, a robust and versatile four-seat aircraft, with price ranges for used models from $99,000 to over $350,000, and advanced technology avionics as optional features.
