Piper Malibu vs Cessna 182
The Cessna 182 Skylane and Piper Malibu sit in very different classes despite both being singles. The high-wing fixed-gear 182 is a non-pressurized four-seat hauler built for simple, dependable travel, while the low-wing Malibu is a pressurized, cabin-class six-seat single for high-altitude, long-range flying. This is a simple workhorse against a pressurized traveler.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Piper Malibu | Cessna 182 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $221,274 – $4,582,731 | $14,500 – $875,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 310 HP | 230 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 198 kts (367 km/h) | 140 kts (259 km/h) |
| Range | 1,300 nm (2,408 km) | 915 nm (1,695 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 25,000 ft (7,620 m) | 18,100 ft (5,517 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 4,100 lbs (1,860 kg) | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,200 lbs (544 kg) | 1,110 lbs (503 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 120.0 gal (454 L) | 92.0 gal (348 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 16.0 GPH (61 L/h) | 12.5 GPH (47 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $35,000 | $32,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $22,000 | $20,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $190 | $160 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston (Turbocharged) | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimatePiper Malibu
Cessna 182
Which Should You Buy: Piper Malibu or Cessna 182?
Bottom line: Choose the 182 for simple systems, low operating costs, and easy ownership; pick the Malibu for pressurization, cabin-class comfort, and serious high-altitude range. Mission and budget decide it—the Malibu rewards long-haul travelers, while the Skylane wins on value and simplicity.
Pick the Malibu if…
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 198 kts vs 140 kts.
- Longer range — 1300 nm vs 915 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1984 vs 1956.
Pick the 182 if…
- Budget matters — from $14,500 vs $221,274, you save ~$206,774.
- Lower operating cost — ~$160/hr vs $190/hr.
- More inventory — 516 listings vs 312.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.