Cessna Aircraft Comparison: The Cessna 172 vs the Cessna 182

For the uninitiated, the Cessna 172 and Cessna 182 are indistinguishable from each other. Both are 4-seat high-wing aircraft with struts that support each wing. But for pilots, they are substantially different aircraft.

The main difference between the 172 and 182 is the engines. Both have been produced for more than 40 years and during that time they have left the factory with a variety of engines. Since the 172N was introduced in 1977, the factory standard engine has produced 160 hp. Before that, 172 engines ranged from 145 to 160 hp. Many older aircraft have been upgraded on the aftermarket to more powerful engines, including a popular 180 hp. version. All of these changes are accomplished through an STC or supplemental type certificate issued by the FAA.

Although the 182 has been powered by several different engines, the standard non-turbo models have always weighed in at 230 hp. This difference in horsepower has several implications. One is, of course, speed. The 182 is 15-20 knots faster than the 172. It can also climb 200 feet per minute faster. Typically, airplanes with larger engines can also lift more weight. The standard maximum weight of the latest 172 model is 2,450 pounds, and the 182 is 3,100 pounds. Not all of that difference is payload, an empty 182 weighs around 300 pounds. heavier than its smaller cousin.

Not all the differences between the 172 and 182 are as easy to quantify as the specs and performance numbers. Being heavier, the 182 is a more stable aircraft than the 172. It doesn’t bounce as much and tends to track better in the direction you want it to go. This is a nice feature if you intend to fly a lot with instruments. (Flying in the clouds or without visual reference to the ground).

With over 200 horsepower and a controllable pitch propeller, the 182 is also considered a high-performance aircraft. What this means is that additional instruction is needed to fly it, both by regulation and by insurance company requirements.

Price wise, a typical price for a used 1978 172 would be $ 40,000, while a similarly equipped 182 would cost at least $ 20,000 more. An 182 will also be more expensive to own. Insurance, inspections, engine checks and operating costs will be higher. For example, an 182 will consume approximately 3 more gallons per hour of fuel.

Neither of these things makes one plane better than the other. What sets an airplane apart is how you plan to use it. If you want a simple plane that is relatively cheap to operate, that requires a 172. If you want to use your plane for transportation and you intend to go to the weather, a 182 better serve your purpose.

Finally, when it comes to distinguishing one plane from another, the gift is the nose. An 182 has a fuller hood section to cover the larger engine and a more aerodynamic windshield.