Cessna 185 vs Cessna 180
The Cessna 180 and Cessna 185 Skywagon are close taildragger cousins, both high-wing utility Cessnas built for rough strips and floats. The 180 is the lighter, slightly smaller original, while the 185 adds more power and payload for heavier hauling. This is a family debate between two classic backcountry haulers.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna 185 | Cessna 180 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $160,000 – $899,500 | $100,000 – $399,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 300 HP | 230 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 145 kts (269 km/h) | 140 kts (259 km/h) |
| Range | 720 nm (1,333 km) | 700 nm (1,296 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 17,150 ft (5,227 m) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,350 lbs (1,520 kg) | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) | 1,400 lbs (635 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 84.0 gal (318 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 15.5 GPH (59 L/h) | 12.0 GPH (45 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $35,000 | $30,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $22,000 | $18,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $175 | $155 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 185
Fuel$85/hr
Variable$175/hr
Annual Fixed$22,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$57,000/yr
Cessna 180
Fuel$66/hr
Variable$155/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$49,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 185 or Cessna 180?
Bottom line: Choose the 180 for a lighter, nimbler taildragger with lower operating costs; pick the 185 for more power, greater payload, and stronger float and load-hauling capability. Mission weight, panel, and condition typically decide it.
Pick the 185 if…
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 145 kts vs 140 kts.
- Longer range — 720 nm vs 700 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1961 vs 1953.
- More inventory — 69 listings vs 50.
Pick the 180 if…
- Budget matters — from $100,000 vs $160,000, you save ~$60,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$155/hr vs $175/hr.
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 185 or Cessna 180?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 185 cruises at 145 kts with 720 nm range.
The 180 cruises at 140 kts with 700 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna 185: from $175,000.
Cessna 180: from $189,900.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 185 and Cessna 180?
185 engine: Continental IO-470-F (300 hp).
180 engine: Continental O-470-K (230 hp).
Seats: 6 vs 4.
Cruise: 145 vs 140 kts.
Range: 720 vs 700 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
185: about $175/hr variable cost.
180: about $155/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?
185: 6 seats / 1,440 lb useful load.
180: 4 seats / 1,400 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?
185: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$35,000.
180: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$30,000.
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