Diamond DA40 vs Cessna 172
The Diamond DA40 and Cessna 172 are both four-seat trainers with contrasting designs. The composite, low-wing DA40 offers modern glass avionics, excellent visibility, and strong safety numbers, while the metal, high-wing 172 brings proven simplicity and unmatched support. This is the modern composite versus classic trainer debate.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Diamond DA40 | Cessna 172 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $149,900 – $733,701 | $27,900 – $589,500 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 180 HP | 180 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 135 kts (250 km/h) | 122 kts (226 km/h) |
| Range | 635 nm (1,176 km) | 640 nm (1,185 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 16,400 ft (4,999 m) | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,535 lbs (1,150 kg) | 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg) |
| Useful Load | 780 lbs (354 kg) | 878 lbs (398 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 40.0 gal (151 L) | 56.0 gal (212 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 9.5 GPH (36 L/h) | 8.6 GPH (33 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $25,000 | $30,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $16,000 | $18,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $120 | $130 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateDiamond DA40
Cessna 172
Which Should You Buy: Diamond DA40 or Cessna 172?
Bottom line: Choose the DA40 for a modern composite airframe, glass avionics, and a strong safety record; pick the 172 for simplicity, lower acquisition cost, and the broadest parts and service network. Both are excellent four-seaters, so budget, avionics, and condition typically decide the purchase.
Pick the DA40 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$120/hr vs $130/hr.
- Faster cruise — 135 kts vs 122 kts.
- Newer design — production from 2000 vs 1956.
Pick the 172 if…
- Budget matters — from $27,900 vs $149,900, you save ~$122,000.
- Longer range — 640 nm vs 635 nm.
- More inventory — 413 listings vs 89.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.