Cessna 182 vs Diamond DA50 RG
The Diamond DA50 RG and Cessna 182 Skylane are both capable single-engine tourers from different generations. The DA50 RG is a modern composite single with a diesel engine and retractable gear, offering jet-A efficiency and a roomy cabin, while the high-wing 182 is a proven, simple fixed-gear piston. This is modern diesel design against classic value.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 182 | Diamond DA50 RG |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $14,500 – $875,000 | $737,764 – $1,499,500 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 5 |
| Horsepower | 230 HP | 300 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 140 kts (259 km/h) | 180 kts (333 km/h) |
| Range | 915 nm (1,695 km) | 750 nm (1,389 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 18,100 ft (5,517 m) | 20,000 ft (6,096 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) | 3,957 lbs (1,795 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,110 lbs (503 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 92.0 gal (348 L) | 50.0 gal (189 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 12.5 GPH (47 L/h) | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $32,000 | $28,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $20,000 | $18,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $160 | $135 |
| 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
Diamond DA50 RG
Fuel$50/hr
Variable$135/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$45,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 182 or Diamond DA50 RG?
Bottom line: Choose the DA50 RG for jet-A efficiency, retractable speed, and a modern composite cabin; pick the 182 for lower purchase price, fixed-gear simplicity, and an enormous support network. Budget, fuel type, and condition typically decide it.
Pick the 182 if…
- Budget matters — from $14,500 vs $737,764, you save ~$723,264.
- Longer range — 915 nm vs 750 nm.
- More inventory — 499 listings vs 31.
Pick the DA50 RG if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$135/hr vs $160/hr.
- More seats — 5 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 180 kts vs 140 kts.
- Newer design — production from 2020 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 Diamond DA50 RG?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 182 cruises at 140 kts with 915 nm range.
The DA50 RG cruises at 180 kts with 750 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Diamond DA50 RG: from $1,499,500.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 182 and Diamond DA50 RG?
182 engine: Continental O-470-L (230 hp).
Seats: 4 vs 5.
Cruise: 140 vs 180 kts.
Range: 915 vs 750 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
182: about $160/hr variable cost.
DA50 RG: about $135/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.
DA50 RG: 5 seats.
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.
DA50 RG: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$28,000.
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