Cessna 177 vs Piper Arrow
The Cessna 177 Cardinal and Piper Arrow attract different buyers. The high-wing, fixed-gear Cardinal offers a wide cabin, sleek wing, and great visibility, while the low-wing Arrow adds retractable gear and a constant-speed prop for faster, complex-rated flying. This is the comfortable high-wing cruiser versus low-wing complex traveler debate.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Cessna 177 | Piper Arrow |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $50,654 – $199,000 | $44,950 – $429,460 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 150 HP | 200 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 120 kts (222 km/h) | 135 kts (250 km/h) |
| Range | 600 nm (1,111 km) | 720 nm (1,333 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 15,400 ft (4,694 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 2,750 lbs (1,247 kg) |
| Useful Load | 900 lbs (408 kg) | 940 lbs (426 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 72.0 gal (273 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) | 10.5 GPH (40 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $32,000 | $30,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $18,000 | $18,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $150 | $145 |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 177
Piper Arrow
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 177 or Piper Arrow?
Bottom line: Choose the 177 for its roomy cabin, excellent visibility, and simple fixed gear; pick the Arrow for retractable gear, a constant-speed prop, and faster cruise ideal for complex training. Both are capable four-seaters, so mission, ratings goals, and condition typically decide the purchase.
Pick the 177 if…
- Newer design — production from 1968 vs 1967.
Pick the Arrow if…
- Budget matters — from $44,950 vs $50,654, you save ~$5,704.
- Lower operating cost — ~$145/hr vs $150/hr.
- Faster cruise — 135 kts vs 120 kts.
- Longer range — 720 nm vs 600 nm.
- More inventory — 189 listings vs 66.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.