Cessna P210 vs Cessna 210
The Cessna P210 and Cessna 210 Centurion share the same high-wing, retractable-gear airframe, but the P210 adds pressurization. That lets it cruise higher and more comfortably above weather, while the unpressurized 210 is simpler and cheaper to own. This is the classic pressurized-versus-standard Centurion choice.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna P210 | Cessna 210 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $180,000 – $975,000 | $25,000 – $975,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 6 |
| Horsepower | 310 HP | 300 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 180 kts (333 km/h) | 164 kts (304 km/h) |
| Range | 850 nm (1,574 km) | 900 nm (1,667 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 23,000 ft (7,010 m) | 17,300 ft (5,273 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 4,000 lbs (1,814 kg) | 3,800 lbs (1,724 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,200 lbs (544 kg) | 1,310 lbs (594 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 90.0 gal (341 L) | 90.0 gal (341 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 16.0 GPH (61 L/h) | 14.5 GPH (55 L/h) |
| TBO | 1,400 hrs | 1,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $35,000 | $35,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $22,000 | $22,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $190 | $175 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston (Turbocharged) | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna P210
Fuel$88/hr
Variable$190/hr
Annual Fixed$22,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$60,000/yr
Cessna 210
Fuel$80/hr
Variable$175/hr
Annual Fixed$22,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$57,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna P210 or Cessna 210?
Bottom line: Choose the P210 for high-altitude comfort, weather-topping capability, and longer pressurized legs; pick the standard 210 for lower acquisition and maintenance costs and simpler systems. Mission altitude, budget, and condition typically decide it.
Pick the P210 if…
- Faster cruise — 180 kts vs 164 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1978 vs 1960.
Pick the 210 if…
- Budget matters — from $25,000 vs $180,000, you save ~$155,000.
- Lower operating cost — ~$175/hr vs $190/hr.
- Longer range — 900 nm vs 850 nm.
- More inventory — 187 listings vs 25.
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 P210 or Cessna 210?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The P210 cruises at 180 kts with 850 nm range.
The 210 cruises at 164 kts with 900 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna P210: from $895,000.
Cessna 210: from $299,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna P210 and Cessna 210?
P210 engine: Continental TSIO-520-R (310 hp).
210 engine: Continental IO-470-E (300 hp).
Cruise: 180 vs 164 kts.
Range: 850 vs 900 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
P210: about $190/hr variable cost.
210: about $175/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?
P210: 6 seats / 1,200 lb useful load.
210: 6 seats / 1,310 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?
P210: 1,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$35,000.
210: 1,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$35,000.
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