Grumman AA-5B Tiger vs Cessna 172
The Cessna 172 and Grumman AA-5B Tiger are four-seat singles that performance-minded buyers compare. The 172 is the stable, ubiquitous trainer, while the Tiger is faster on the same horsepower thanks to its slick airframe and offers a sliding canopy and sporty handling. The matchup pits practicality against performance and fun.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Grumman AA-5B Tiger | Cessna 172 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $84,724 – $199,000 | $27,900 – $589,500 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Horsepower | — | 180 HP |
| Cruise Speed | — | 122 kts (226 km/h) |
| Range | — | 640 nm (1,185 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | — | 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 878 lbs (398 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 56.0 gal (212 L) |
| Fuel Burn | — | 8.6 GPH (33 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $30,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $18,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $130 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateGrumman AA-5B Tiger
Cessna 172
Which Should You Buy: Grumman AA-5B Tiger or Cessna 172?
Bottom line: Choose the 172 for parts availability, easy maintenance, and docile training-friendly handling. Pick the AA-5B Tiger for notably faster cruise on similar power, sportier handling, and the distinctive sliding canopy; the Tiger rewards pilots who value speed and feel over the 172's sheer ubiquity.
Pick the AA-5B Tiger if…
- Newer design — production from 1975 vs 1956.
Pick the 172 if…
- Budget matters — from $27,900 vs $84,724, you save ~$56,824.
- More inventory — 408 listings vs 17.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.