Cessna 182 vs Piper Cherokee
The Cessna 182 Skylane and Piper Cherokee are both popular four-seat singles, but they sit at different power levels. The high-wing fixed-gear 182 is a powerful hauler with a constant-speed prop and strong payload, while the low-wing Cherokee is a stable, economical personal aircraft and trainer. This pits a heavier cross-country machine against an affordable everyday flyer.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Cessna 182 | Piper Cherokee |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $14,500 – $875,000 | $9,800 – $9,950,010 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 230 HP | 150 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 140 kts (259 km/h) | 117 kts (217 km/h) |
| Range | 915 nm (1,695 km) | 525 nm (972 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 18,100 ft (5,517 m) | 14,300 ft (4,359 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) | 2,150 lbs (975 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,110 lbs (503 kg) | 850 lbs (386 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 92.0 gal (348 L) | 50.0 gal (189 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 12.5 GPH (47 L/h) | 8.0 GPH (30 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $32,000 | $28,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $20,000 | $16,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $160 | $120 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 182
Piper Cherokee
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 182 or Piper Cherokee?
Bottom line: Choose the 182 for more power, payload, and cross-country capability; pick the Cherokee for lower operating costs, docile handling, and easy ownership. Mission and budget decide it—travelers and haulers lean Skylane, while economy and simplicity favor the Cherokee.
Pick the 182 if…
- Faster cruise — 140 kts vs 117 kts.
- Longer range — 915 nm vs 525 nm.
Pick the Cherokee if…
- Budget matters — from $9,800 vs $14,500, you save ~$4,700.
- Lower operating cost — ~$120/hr vs $160/hr.
- Newer design — production from 1961 vs 1956.
- More inventory — 629 listings vs 499.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.