1981 CESSNA 421C NO LONGER LISTED
This listing is no longer available on the source. The details below reflect the last known information.
No photo available
$359,000
Great Deal
- Year
- 1981
- Make
- Cessna
- Model
- 421C
- Total Time
- 6,200 hr
- Location
- Dexter, MI
- Seller
- Herron Aviation Group
- Source
- controller.com
Performance & Capacity
- Seats
- 8
- Cruise
- 230 kts
- Range
- 1,385 nm
- Useful Load
- 2,450 lbs
- Burn
- 35.0 gph
- Engines
- 2 · Piston
- Power
- 375 hp
- MTOW
- 12,500 lbs
- ICAO Type
- C421
Manufacturer-published specs for the Cessna 421C model. Actual aircraft may vary by configuration / modifications.
Operating Cost (est.)
- Hourly Variable
- $400
- Annual Fixed
- $35,000
- Engine Overhaul
- $50,000
- TBO
- 1,600 hrs
AeroGurus estimates based on industry averages for the Cessna 421C. Actual costs vary by location, usage, maintenance history, and configuration.
Market price band
Cessna 421C typical:
$100,000 – $749,000
median $474,950
across 69 active listings
This listing at $359,000 is 24% below median.
Description
Annual in process now, expected to be complete early March. Located in Ann Arbor MI at KARB. Link to logs and pics available. This 1980 Cessna 421C is a turnkey, ready-to-fly pressurized twin that offers impressive performance, capability, and comfort. With a high useful load of 2,233 lbs, 234 gallons of fuel capacity, and VG's for enhanced handling and stability, this aircraft is perfect for both business and personal missions. Certified for Flight Into Known Icing (FIKI), equipped with spoilers, and configured for 8 seats, it combines safety, performance, and versatility. See the video on this aircraft here: The airframe has been well maintained, with complete logs. Whether you're looking for a reliable family airplane or a high-performance business tool, this 421C delivers comfort and speed. Don't miss this opportunity to own a well-equipped and meticulously maintained aircraft.
About the Cessna 421C
The Cessna 421 Golden Eagle is a pressurized, twin-engine piston aircraft that was the flagship of Cessna's piston twin lineup from 1968 to 1985. Powered by two Continental GTSIO-520-H/L engines (375 HP each, geared and turbocharged), the 421C (final variant) cruises at 230 KTAS at FL240 with cabin pressurization of 4.2 psi differential — true all-weather, high-altitude piston twin performance. The cabin seats six to eight passengers in club seating with a stand-up aisle, air conditioning, and flushing lavatory. Over 1,900 were built across all variants.
Key variants. The 421 (1968-1971) and 421A (1969-1971) were the originals. The 421B (1971-1975) improved the cabin and systems. The 421C Golden Eagle (1976-1985) is the most refined — bonded wet wing (no bladders), improved gear system, longer cabin, and more powerful GTSIO-520-L engines. The 421C is by far the most desirable variant.
Why the 421 still has a following. Nothing else delivers pressurized, twin-engine, jet-like capability at piston operating costs. The 421C cruises above most weather at FL240 with six passengers in a cabin comparable to a small business jet. For owners who need pressurization but cannot justify turboprop operating costs ($800-$1,200/hr), the 421 operates at $400-$600/hr all-in.
Buying advice. The GTSIO-520 engines are the 421's Achilles heel — they are the most complex piston engines ever produced (geared, turbocharged, fuel-injected) with a 1,600-hour TBO that is rarely reached without significant top-end work. Engine overhaul costs $70,000-$90,000 per side. Gearbox adapter plate cracking and propeller governor issues are known failure modes. Check for exhaust system cracks, turbocharger condition, and intercooler integrity. The pressurization system (boots, outflow valve, door seal) must be tested during pre-buy flight. Corrosion at the wing spar carry-through is a potential deal-breaker.
Market. Cessna 421B: $80,000-$180,000. 421C: $120,000-$300,000. Premium 421C with modern avionics and mid-time engines: $200,000-$400,000. A Cessna 421 for sale is a compelling alternative to a turboprop — but only for buyers prepared for the engine maintenance demands.
Produced 1976–1985.