Cessna 172N Skywhawk vs Diamond DA40
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 172N Skywhawk | Diamond DA40 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $119,900 | $149,900 – $733,701 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | — | 4 |
| Horsepower | — | 180 HP |
| Cruise Speed | — | 135 kts (250 km/h) |
| Range | — | 635 nm (1,176 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 16,400 ft (4,999 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 2,535 lbs (1,150 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 780 lbs (354 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 40.0 gal (151 L) |
| Fuel Burn | — | 9.5 GPH (36 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $25,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $16,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $120 |
| Engines | — | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 172N Skywhawk
Diamond DA40
Fuel$52/hr
Variable$120/hr
Annual Fixed$16,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$40,000/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 172N Skywhawk or Diamond DA40?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The DA40 cruises at 135 kts with 635 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna 172N Skywhawk: from $119,900.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 172N Skywhawk and Diamond DA40?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
DA40: about $120/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?
DA40: 4 seats / 780 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?
DA40: 2,000-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