Cessna 185 vs Cessna 206
The Cessna 206 and Cessna 185 Skywagon are both legendary high-wing utility haulers, often working from short and rough strips. The fixed-gear 206 offers a large cabin with a big cargo door for hauling people and freight, while the taildragger 185 is a rugged backcountry classic prized for short-field grit. This is modern utility versus backcountry heritage.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Cessna 185 | Cessna 206 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $160,000 – $899,500 | $139,000 – $1,295,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Horsepower | 300 HP | 300 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 145 kts (269 km/h) | 142 kts (263 km/h) |
| Range | 720 nm (1,333 km) | 840 nm (1,556 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 17,150 ft (5,227 m) | 15,700 ft (4,785 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,350 lbs (1,520 kg) | 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) | 1,400 lbs (635 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 84.0 gal (318 L) | 92.0 gal (348 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 15.5 GPH (59 L/h) | 14.5 GPH (55 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 1,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $35,000 | $35,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $22,000 | $22,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $175 | $175 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 185
Cessna 206
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 185 or Cessna 206?
Bottom line: Choose the 206 for cabin volume, the big cargo door, and easier tricycle-gear handling; pick the 185 for taildragger capability, ruggedness, and backcountry performance. Mission decides it—load-hauling and ease favor the 206, while bush flying and short strips reward the 185.
Pick the 185 if…
- Faster cruise — 145 kts vs 142 kts.
Pick the 206 if…
- Budget matters — from $139,000 vs $160,000, you save ~$21,000.
- Longer range — 840 nm vs 720 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1964 vs 1961.
- More inventory — 168 listings vs 69.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.