Cessna 182 vs Cessna 150
The Cessna 182 Skylane and Cessna 150 are both high-wing Cessna singles, but built for very different roles. The four-seat 182 is a capable cross-country hauler with strong payload and range, while the two-seat 150 is a compact, economical trainer. This pairs a serious family traveler against a simple learn-to-fly aircraft.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 182 | Cessna 150 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $14,500 – $875,000 | $25,000 – $129,900 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 230 HP | 100 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 140 kts (259 km/h) | 97 kts (180 km/h) |
| Range | 915 nm (1,695 km) | 420 nm (778 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 18,100 ft (5,517 m) | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) | 1,600 lbs (726 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,110 lbs (503 kg) | 530 lbs (240 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 92.0 gal (348 L) | 26.0 gal (98 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 12.5 GPH (47 L/h) | 6.0 GPH (23 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,400 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $32,000 | $25,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $20,000 | $15,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $160 | $100 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 182
Fuel$69/hr
Variable$160/hr
Annual Fixed$20,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$52,000/yr
Cessna 150
Fuel$33/hr
Variable$100/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$35,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 182 or Cessna 150?
Bottom line: Choose the 182 for four seats, real payload, and cross-country capability; pick the 150 for low operating costs, easy handling, and ideal training economy. Mission, seating needs, and budget typically decide it.
Pick the 182 if…
- Budget matters — from $14,500 vs $25,000, you save ~$10,500.
- More seats — 4 vs 2.
- Faster cruise — 140 kts vs 97 kts.
- Longer range — 915 nm vs 420 nm.
- More inventory — 499 listings vs 131.
Pick the 150 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$100/hr vs $160/hr.
- Newer design — production from 1959 vs 1956.
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 182 or Cessna 150?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 182 cruises at 140 kts with 915 nm range.
The 150 cruises at 97 kts with 420 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 182 and Cessna 150?
182 engine: Continental O-470-L (230 hp).
150 engine: Continental O-200 (100 hp).
Seats: 4 vs 2.
Cruise: 140 vs 97 kts.
Range: 915 vs 420 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
182: about $160/hr variable cost.
150: about $100/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?
182: 4 seats / 1,110 lb useful load.
150: 2 seats / 530 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?
182: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$32,000.
150: 2,400-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