Cessna 152 vs Cessna 150
The Cessna 150 and Cessna 152 are the two classic two-seat trainers that taught generations of pilots to fly. The 150 is the earlier, lighter design, while the 152 is its refined successor with a slightly more powerful engine and a few cabin and systems improvements. This is the quintessential entry-level Cessna debate.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 152 | Cessna 150 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $25,000 – $125,000 | $25,000 – $129,900 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 110 HP | 100 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 100 kts (185 km/h) | 97 kts (180 km/h) |
| Range | 415 nm (769 km) | 420 nm (778 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 14,700 ft (4,481 m) | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 1,670 lbs (758 kg) | 1,600 lbs (726 kg) |
| Useful Load | 528 lbs (240 kg) | 530 lbs (240 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 26.0 gal (98 L) | 26.0 gal (98 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 6.1 GPH (23 L/h) | 6.0 GPH (23 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,400 hrs | 2,400 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $22,000 | $25,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $15,000 | $15,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $100 | $100 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 152
Fuel$34/hr
Variable$100/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$35,000/yr
Cessna 150
Fuel$33/hr
Variable$100/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$35,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 152 or Cessna 150?
Bottom line: Choose the 150 for lower purchase prices and a huge fleet of affordable airframes; pick the 152 for the stronger engine, minor cabin refinements, and slightly better useful load. Both are simple, forgiving trainers, so condition, engine time, and avionics usually decide it.
Pick the 152 if…
- Faster cruise — 100 kts vs 97 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1977 vs 1959.
Pick the 150 if…
- Longer range — 420 nm vs 415 nm.
- More inventory — 130 listings vs 58.
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 152 or Cessna 150?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 152 cruises at 100 kts with 415 nm range.
The 150 cruises at 97 kts with 420 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna 152: from $25,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 152 and Cessna 150?
152 engine: Lycoming O-235 (110 hp).
150 engine: Continental O-200 (100 hp).
Cruise: 100 vs 97 kts.
Range: 415 vs 420 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
152: about $100/hr variable cost.
150: about $100/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?
152: 2 seats / 528 lb useful load.
150: 2 seats / 530 lb useful load.
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?
152: 2,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$22,000.
150: 2,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$25,000.
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