Cessna 172L vs Piper Cherokee 180

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Cessna 172L Piper Cherokee 180
Cessna 172L
View 10 listings →
Median $125,000
Piper Cherokee 180
View 79 listings →
Median $99,000
Price Range $79,900 – $179,000 $9,800 – $9,950,010
Category Single Engine Piston Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 4
Horsepower 180 HP
Cruise Speed 122 kts (226 km/h)
Range 640 nm (1,185 km)
Max Gross Weight 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg)
Useful Load 878 lbs (398 kg)
TBO 2,000 hrs
Engines 1 x Reciprocating

Which Should You Buy: Cessna 172L or Piper Cherokee 180?

Pick the 172L if…

  • Newer design — production from 1968 vs 1963.

Pick the Cherokee 180 if…

  • Budget matters — from $9,800 vs $79,900, you save ~$70,100.
  • More inventory — 79 listings vs 10.

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 172L or Piper Cherokee 180?
It depends on your mission and budget. The 172L 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 172L: from $179,000. Piper Cherokee 180: from $109,500. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 172L and Piper Cherokee 180?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
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?
172L: 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?
172L: 2,000-hour TBO. 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