Cessna A185E vs Maule M-7-235C
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna A185E | Maule M-7-235C |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $265,000 – $350,000 | $225,000 – $249,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 300 HP | — |
| Cruise Speed | 145 kts (269 km/h) | — |
| Range | 720 nm (1,333 km) | — |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,440 lbs (653 kg) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 14.0 GPH (53 L/h) | 13.0 GPH (49 L/h) |
| TBO | 1,700 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $35,000 | $28,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $22,000 | $15,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $160 | $140 |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | 1 x Reciprocating |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna A185E
Fuel$77/hr
Variable$160/hr
Annual Fixed$22,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$54,000/yr
Maule M-7-235C
Fuel$72/hr
Variable$140/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$43,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna A185E or Maule M-7-235C?
Pick the A185E if…
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
Pick the M-7-235C if…
- Budget matters — from $225,000 vs $265,000, you save ~$40,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$140/hr vs $160/hr.
- Newer design — production from 1976 vs 1971.
- More inventory — 4 listings vs 2.
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 A185E or Maule M-7-235C?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The A185E cruises at 145 kts with 720 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna A185E: from $265,000.
Maule M-7-235C: from $225,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna A185E and Maule M-7-235C?
A185E engine: Continental IO-520-D (300 hp).
Seats: 6 vs 4.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
A185E: about $160/hr variable cost.
M-7-235C: about $140/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?
A185E: 6 seats / 1,440 lb useful load.
M-7-235C: 4 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?
A185E: 1,700-hour TBO, overhaul ~$35,000.
M-7-235C: 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