Cessna 150 vs Piper Cherokee 140
The Piper Cherokee 140 and Cessna 150 are entry-level trainers that budget buyers compare. The Cherokee 140 is a low-wing two-plus-two with a 150 hp engine, while the Cessna 150 is a pure two-seat high-wing trainer. Both are economical first airplanes with strong support.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 150 | Piper Cherokee 140 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $25,000 – $129,900 | $20,000 – $150,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 100 HP | 150 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 97 kts (180 km/h) | 115 kts (213 km/h) |
| Range | 420 nm (778 km) | 455 nm (843 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) | 14,350 ft (4,374 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,600 lbs (726 kg) | 2,150 lbs (975 kg) |
| Useful Load | 530 lbs (240 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 26.0 gal (98 L) | 50.0 gal (189 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 6.0 GPH (23 L/h) | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,400 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $25,000 | $28,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $15,000 | $16,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $100 | $120 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 150
Fuel$33/hr
Variable$100/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$35,000/yr
Piper Cherokee 140
Fuel$50/hr
Variable$120/hr
Annual Fixed$16,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$40,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 150 or Piper Cherokee 140?
Bottom line: Choose the Cessna 150 for the lowest-cost two-seat training and excellent parts availability. Pick the Cherokee 140 for the low-wing layout and occasional use of its small rear seats; the 140 offers a bit more versatility, while the 150 is the simpler, cheaper dedicated trainer.
Pick the 150 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$100/hr vs $120/hr.
- More inventory — 131 listings vs 107.
Pick the Cherokee 140 if…
- Budget matters — from $20,000 vs $25,000, you save ~$5,000.
- More seats — 4 vs 2.
- Faster cruise — 115 kts vs 97 kts.
- Longer range — 455 nm vs 420 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1964 vs 1959.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 150 or Piper Cherokee 140?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 150 cruises at 97 kts with 420 nm range.
The Cherokee 140 cruises at 115 kts with 455 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 150 and Piper Cherokee 140?
150 engine: Continental O-200 (100 hp).
Seats: 2 vs 4.
Cruise: 97 vs 115 kts.
Range: 420 vs 455 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
150: about $100/hr variable cost.
Cherokee 140: about $120/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
150: 2 seats / 530 lb useful load.
Cherokee 140: 4 seats.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
150: 2,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$25,000.
Cherokee 140: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$28,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data