Cirrus SR20 vs Cessna 172
The Cirrus SR20 and the Cessna 172 are both fixed-gear four-seat singles, so the comparison is really about old-school simplicity versus modern technology. The 172 is the most-produced airplane ever — 180 hp, forgiving, cheap to run, and supported by parts and instructors everywhere. The SR20 is the attainable end of the Cirrus line: a 215 hp composite airframe with a glass cockpit, a side-yoke, and a CAPS whole-airframe parachute, cruising meaningfully faster but costing more to buy and run. One is the safest, lowest-drama first airplane; the other is a modern step-up you can still learn in.
Key specifications, side by side
| Cirrus SR20 | Cessna 172 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 4–5 | 4 |
| Engine | Continental IO-390 (later) | Lycoming IO-360 (172S) |
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 180 hp |
| Cruise speed | ~155 kt | ~124 kt |
| Range | ~700 nm | ~640 nm |
| Useful load | ~1,050 lb | ~880 lb |
| Fuel (usable) | 56 gal | 53 gal |
| Safety | CAPS whole-airframe parachute | — |
| Landing gear | — | Fixed tricycle |
Representative figures for a popular variant of each family — exact specs vary by model year, engine, and avionics configuration.
What's different about the Cirrus SR20
- Same airframe, parachute, and glass cockpit as the SR22 at a lower purchase and operating cost.
- 215 hp trades top speed for affordability — a popular step-up trainer and a common first Cirrus.
- Fixed gear plus CAPS keeps insurance attainable for lower-time pilots moving into a modern composite.
What's different about the Cessna 172
- The most-produced aircraft ever — unmatched parts, mechanic, and instructor support, and the easiest single to insure and resell.
- Forgiving, docile handling makes it the default primary trainer and a low-stress first aircraft to own.
- High-wing layout gives shade, easy passenger entry, and great downward visibility for sightseeing — but limits useful load with full fuel.
Cirrus SR20 vs Cessna 172 — frequently asked questions
Quick answers for buyers and prospective co-owners.
Is the Cirrus SR20 faster than a Cessna 172?
Yes. The SR20’s 215 hp gives about 155 kt cruise against roughly 124 kt for the 180 hp Cessna 172. The 172 trades that speed for simplicity and the lowest operating cost in aviation.
Which is cheaper to own, an SR20 or a 172?
The 172, by a clear margin. It burns less fuel and has no glass-panel upkeep or parachute system, and its parts and maintenance are the most ubiquitous anywhere. The SR20 adds a bigger engine, avionics upkeep, and the periodic CAPS parachute repack — costs many owners share through co-ownership.
Which is the better first airplane?
For the lowest cost and easiest insurance, the 172 — it is the default trainer for good reason. The SR20 is a great choice for a pilot who wants a glass panel and the CAPS parachute from the start and is willing to do type-specific transition training and pay more to run it.