Cessna 170 vs Piper J-3 Cub
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 170 | Piper J-3 Cub |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $33,269 – $359,000 | $7,500 – $101,346 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 145 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 105 kts (194 km/h) | — |
| Range | 500 nm (926 km) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 900 lbs (408 kg) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $30,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $18,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $130 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 170
Fuel$50/hr
Variable$130/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$44,000/yr
Piper J-3 Cub
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 170 or Piper J-3 Cub?
Pick the 170 if…
- More seats — 4 vs 2.
- Newer design — production from 1948 vs 1937.
Pick the J-3 Cub if…
- Budget matters — from $7,500 vs $33,269, you save ~$25,769.
- More inventory — 29 listings vs 17.
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 170 or Piper J-3 Cub?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 170 cruises at 105 kts with 500 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna 170: from $159,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 170 and Piper J-3 Cub?
170 engine: Continental C145-2 (145 hp).
J-3 Cub engine: Continental A-40.
Seats: 4 vs 2.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
170: about $130/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?
170: 4 seats / 900 lb useful load.
J-3 Cub: 2 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?
170: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$30,000.
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