Piper Cherokee 140 vs Cessna 150
The Piper Cherokee 140 and Cessna 150 are entry-level trainers that budget buyers compare. The Cherokee 140 is a low-wing two-plus-two with a 150 hp engine, while the Cessna 150 is a pure two-seat high-wing trainer. Both are economical first airplanes with strong support.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Piper Cherokee 140 | Cessna 150 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $20,000 – $150,000 | $25,000 – $129,900 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 150 HP | 100 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 115 kts (213 km/h) | 97 kts (180 km/h) |
| Range | 455 nm (843 km) | 420 nm (778 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 14,350 ft (4,374 m) | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,150 lbs (975 kg) | 1,600 lbs (726 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 530 lbs (240 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 50.0 gal (189 L) | 26.0 gal (98 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 9.0 GPH (34 L/h) | 6.0 GPH (23 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,400 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $28,000 | $25,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $16,000 | $15,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $120 | $100 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimatePiper Cherokee 140
Fuel$50/hr
Variable$120/hr
Annual Fixed$16,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$40,000/yr
Cessna 150
Fuel$33/hr
Variable$100/hr
Annual Fixed$15,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$35,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Piper Cherokee 140 or Cessna 150?
Bottom line: Choose the Cessna 150 for the lowest-cost two-seat training and excellent parts availability. Pick the Cherokee 140 for the low-wing layout and occasional use of its small rear seats; the 140 offers a bit more versatility, while the 150 is the simpler, cheaper dedicated trainer.
Pick the Cherokee 140 if…
- Budget matters — from $20,000 vs $25,000, you save ~$5,000.
- More seats — 4 vs 2.
- Faster cruise — 115 kts vs 97 kts.
- Longer range — 455 nm vs 420 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1964 vs 1959.
Pick the 150 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$100/hr vs $120/hr.
- More inventory — 131 listings vs 107.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Piper Cherokee 140 or Cessna 150?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Cherokee 140 cruises at 115 kts with 455 nm range.
The 150 cruises at 97 kts with 420 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Piper Cherokee 140 and Cessna 150?
150 engine: Continental O-200 (100 hp).
Seats: 4 vs 2.
Cruise: 115 vs 97 kts.
Range: 455 vs 420 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Cherokee 140: about $120/hr variable cost.
150: about $100/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?
Cherokee 140: 4 seats.
150: 2 seats / 530 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?
Cherokee 140: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$28,000.
150: 2,400-hour TBO, overhaul ~$25,000.
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