Cessna 172 vs Tecnam P2010
The Tecnam P2010 and Cessna 172 are certified four-seat singles — the P2010 a modern, larger-cabin high-wing (with diesel/avgas and 180-215 hp options), the 172 the world's benchmark trainer/ tourer.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 172 | Tecnam P2010 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $10,000 – $589,500 | — |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | — |
| Horsepower | 180 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 122 kts (226 km/h) | — |
| Range | 640 nm (1,185 km) | — |
| Service Ceiling | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg) | — |
| Useful Load | 878 lbs (398 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 56.0 gal (212 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 8.6 GPH (33 L/h) | — |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | — |
| Overhaul Cost | $30,000 | — |
| Annual Fixed | $18,000 | — |
| Hourly Variable | $130 | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | — |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 172
Fuel$47/hr
Variable$130/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$44,000/yr
Tecnam P2010
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 172 or Tecnam P2010?
Bottom line: Choose the Cessna 172 for the largest support/training network, easy financing/insurance and proven resale; choose the Tecnam P2010 for a newer airframe, a wider cabin, four real seats and modern glass — often with diesel economy. 172 = ubiquity/resale; P2010 = modern/cabin/economy.
Pick the 172 if…
Pick the P2010 if…
- Newer design — production from 2014 vs 1956.
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 172 or Tecnam P2010?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 172 cruises at 122 kts with 640 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna 172: from $179,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 172 and Tecnam P2010?
172 engine: Continental O-300 (180 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
172: 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?
172: 4 seats / 878 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?
172: 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