This 1977 Cessna R172K Skyhawk Is a Factory Hot Rod ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

1977 Cessna R172K Skyhawk [Courtesy: McCreery Aviation Co.]

Each day, the team at Aircraft For Sale picks an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, represents a good deal, or has other interesting qualities. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1977 Cessna R172K Skyhawk.

Many pilots who regularly fly Cessna 172s have, at some point, wished their aircraft had more power so they could cruise and climb a bit faster while carrying heavier loads.

While there are aftermarket modifications for the installation of larger engines in the aircraft, the company’s R172K, also known as the Hawk XP, is a factory version with even more muscle than the popular 180 hp STC upgrades.

The Hawk XP is a relative of the French-built Reims 172, sometimes called the Reims rocket, which also has more power than the stock 150 hp and 160 hp models of the 172 available in the U.S. While the Hawk XP is not a super speedster compared with standard 172s, it is noticeably faster especially in the climb.

1977 Cessna R172K Skyhawk [Courtesy: McCreery Aviation Co.]

This 1977 Cessna R172K has 2,575 hours on the airframe and 436 hours since overhaul on its 195 hp Continental IO-360KB and three-blade Hartzell propeller. The aircraft is equipped with Whelen strobe and navigation lights, oil quick drain, and full-flow oil filter. Usable fuel totaled 49 gallons with a useful load of 929 pounds.

The VFR panel includes dual King KX 155 nav/com radios, Apollo GX55 GPS, a PS Engineering PM1000 II intercom, Collins AMR 350 audio panel, King KT76A transponder with altitude reporter, uAvionix tailBeacon with ADS-B Out, electric turn and bank indicator, and magnetic compass.

Pilots who feel affection toward the Cessna 172 but wish for a power boost for faster climb and better load-carrying capacity should consider this 1977 Cessna R172K, which is available for $179,900 on AircraftForSale.

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