Cessna 172L vs Piper Archer
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 172L | Piper Archer |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $79,900 – $179,000 | $25,000 – $699,000 |
| 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 Archer?
Pick the 172L if…
Pick the Archer if…
- Budget matters — from $25,000 vs $79,900, you save ~$54,900.
- More inventory — 102 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 Archer?
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.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 172L and Piper Archer?
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