This 1968 Cessna 177 Cardinal Is a Powered-Up ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Today’s Top Pick is a 1968 Cessna 177 Cardinal.

Most pilots know the Cessna 177 Cardinal’s early story, which includes a late-1960s marketing mission to supersede the hugely successful 172 Skyhawk that fell flat. Despite this failure and a relatively short sales life, the 177 has cultivated fans in the modern used aircraft market because of its thoughtful design details and performance that typically leaves 172s behind.

While the 177 may never have been an appropriate replacement for the 172, it is an easy step up for pilots seeking a personal aircraft after graduating from trainers. The Cardinal is faster than 172s and other basic trainers, with more engaging handling characteristics and a more comfortable cabin. It also has practical and attractive features, such as a large windshield that extends ahead of the wing for better visibility, and large cabin doors that swing open farther than on other aircraft.

This 1968 Cardinal has 5,430 hours on the airframe and 605 hours on its 180 hp Lycoming O-360-A1A since it was overhauled in 2020. The engine upgrade was completed under an STC. The aircraft has a useful load of 823 pounds.

The IFR panel includes a Garmin GMA 345 audio panel, GNS 430W GPS/nav/com, King KX 155 nav/com, Garmin 335 transponder, and  Electronics International CGR-30P engine monitor.

Pilots looking for an economical traveling aircraft with more power and improved performance and comfort over the typical trainer should consider this 1968 Cessna 177 Cardinal, which is available for $134,900 on AircraftForSale.

If you’re interested in financing, you can do so with FLYING Finance. Use the airplane loan calculator to calculate your estimated monthly payments. Or, to speak with an aviation finance specialist, visit flyingfinance.com.