Cessna 177 vs Cessna 210
The Cessna 177 Cardinal and Cessna 210 Centurion are both high-wing Cessnas aimed at different missions. The Cardinal is a comfortable, fixed-gear four-seater with a sleek wing, while the larger 210 offers retractable gear, more power, and six seats for serious cross-country travel. This is the efficient cruiser versus high-performance hauler comparison.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Cessna 177 | Cessna 210 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $50,624 – $199,000 | $25,000 – $975,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 6 |
| Horsepower | 150 HP | 300 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 120 kts (222 km/h) | 164 kts (304 km/h) |
| Range | 600 nm (1,111 km) | 900 nm (1,667 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 17,300 ft (5,273 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 3,800 lbs (1,724 kg) |
| Useful Load | 900 lbs (408 kg) | 1,310 lbs (594 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 90.0 gal (341 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) | 14.5 GPH (55 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 1,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $32,000 | $35,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $18,000 | $22,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $150 | $175 |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 177
Cessna 210
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 177 or Cessna 210?
Bottom line: Choose the 177 for a roomy cabin, simple fixed gear, and efficient cruising; pick the 210 for retractable gear, six seats, more power, and greater speed and payload. Both are capable Cessnas, so mission, payload needs, and condition typically decide which fits best.
Pick the 177 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$150/hr vs $175/hr.
- Newer design — production from 1968 vs 1960.
Pick the 210 if…
- Budget matters — from $25,000 vs $50,624, you save ~$25,624.
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 164 kts vs 120 kts.
- Longer range — 900 nm vs 600 nm.
- More inventory — 179 listings vs 66.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.