Cessna 182 Continental (early) vs Pitts S-2A
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
Cessna 182 Continental (early)
No active listings right now.
Pitts S-2A
- For sale now
- 5
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 1
- Source marketplaces
- 5
- Model years available
- 1973–1980
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Cessna 182 Continental (early) | Pitts S-2A |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 12 |
| Serious | — | 2 |
| Fatal | — | 3 |
| Fatalities | — | 4 |
| % Fatal | — | 25% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Cessna 182 Continental (early) | Pitts S-2A |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | — | $89,525 – $102,920 |
| Category | — | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 2 |
| Horsepower | 230 HP | 200 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 140 kts (259 km/h) | 137 kts (254 km/h) |
| Range | 640 nm (1,185 km) | 298 nm (552 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 18,900 ft (5,761 m) | 17,000 ft (5,182 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,650 lbs (1,202 kg) | 1,670 lbs (758 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,140 lbs (517 kg) | 500 lbs (227 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 13.5 GPH (51 L/h) | 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 182 Continental (early) or Pitts S-2A?
Pick the 182 Continental (early) if…
- More seats — 4 vs 2.
- Faster cruise — 140 kts vs 137 kts.
- Longer range — 640 nm vs 298 nm.
Pick the S-2A if…
- Newer design — production from 1972 vs 1956.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna 182 Continental (early) or Pitts S-2A?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 182 Continental (early) cruises at 140 kts with 640 nm range.
The S-2A cruises at 137 kts with 298 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Pitts S-2A: from $89,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna 182 Continental (early) and Pitts S-2A?
182 Continental (early) engine: Continental O-470-L/R (230 hp).
Seats: 4 vs 2.
Cruise: 140 vs 137 kts.
Range: 640 vs 298 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
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?
182 Continental (early): 4 seats / 1,140 lb useful load.
S-2A: 2 seats / 500 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?
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