Piper Matrix vs Cessna 172
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Piper Matrix | Cessna 172 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $438,000 – $765,000 | $27,900 – $589,500 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 350 HP | 180 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 195 kts (361 km/h) | 122 kts (226 km/h) |
| Range | 1,200 nm (2,222 km) | 640 nm (1,185 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 25,000 ft (7,620 m) | 14,000 ft (4,267 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 4,340 lbs (1,969 kg) | 2,550 lbs (1,157 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,343 lbs (609 kg) | 878 lbs (398 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 120.0 gal (454 L) | 56.0 gal (212 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 18.0 GPH (68 L/h) | 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 (Turbocharged) | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimatePiper Matrix
Fuel$99/hr
Cessna 172
Fuel$47/hr
Variable$130/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$44,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Piper Matrix or Cessna 172?
Pick the Matrix if…
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 195 kts vs 122 kts.
- Longer range — 1200 nm vs 640 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2008 vs 1956.
Pick the 172 if…
- Budget matters — from $27,900 vs $438,000, you save ~$410,100.
- More inventory — 424 listings vs 12.
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 Matrix or Cessna 172?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Matrix cruises at 195 kts with 1,200 nm range.
The 172 cruises at 122 kts with 640 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Matrix: from $679,000.
Cessna 172: from $125,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Piper Matrix and Cessna 172?
172 engine: Continental O-300 (180 hp).
Seats: 6 vs 4.
Cruise: 195 vs 122 kts.
Range: 1200 vs 640 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
172: about $130/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?
Matrix: 6 seats / 1,343 lb useful load.
172: 4 seats / 878 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?
172: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$30,000.
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