Vans RV-9 vs Cessna 172
The Van's RV-9 (amateur-built efficient two-seat tourer) and Cessna 172 (certified four-seat trainer/tourer) are different categories — the RV-9 is faster and more efficient on less fuel; the 172 is the certified, four-seat, rentable/financeable standard.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Vans RV-9 | Cessna 172 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $140,882 – $198,500 | $10,000 – $589,500 |
| Category | Experimental | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | 4 |
| Horsepower | — | 180 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 2 kts (4 km/h) | 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 | 6.0 GPH (23 L/h) | 8.6 GPH (33 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $20,000 | $30,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $10,000 | $18,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $85 | $130 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateVans RV-9
Cessna 172
Which Should You Buy: Vans RV-9 or Cessna 172?
Bottom line: Choose the Cessna 172 for certified four-seat utility, easy financing/insurance and a vast support network. Choose the RV-9 for far better speed and efficiency in a two-seat homebuilt — accepting amateur-built status and the need to assess build quality. ================================================================ # CROSS-REFS ================================================================ - Cirrus/Cessna mirrors in those files; Glasair/Sling/Flight Design mirrors where present. - RV-8 (tandem) = sport-aerobatic, step toward Pitts/Extra for unlimited aerobatics (see those brands).
Pick the RV-9 if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$85/hr vs $130/hr.
- Newer design — production from 1997 vs 1956.
Pick the 172 if…
- Budget matters — from $10,000 vs $140,882, you save ~$130,882.
- More seats — 4 vs 1.
- Faster cruise — 122 kts vs 2 kts.
- More inventory — 409 listings vs 3.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.