Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP vs Diamond DA40 Diamond Star
Head-to-head — specs, at a glance.
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iCessna 172S Skyhawk SP
The modern Cessna 172 represents the latest chapter of the most-produced aircraft in aviation history, with over 44,000 total 172s built across all variants since 1956. Cessna restarted 172 production in 1997 after a decade-long hiatus caused by product liability concerns, introducing the 172R as its return-to-market model and following quickly with the 172S Skyhawk SP in 1998. Both models share the same airframe lineage but introduced fuel injection, a significantly modernized interior, and eventually the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit that transformed the type from a basic trainer into a genuinely capable IFR platform.
- +Excellent parts availability and mechanic familiarity worldwide
- +G1000 glass cockpit makes capable single-pilot IFR platform
- +Predictable, honest performance with 124 KTAS cruise and 550+ nm range
- !Hot-start difficulties on fuel-injected engine common in real-world operation
- !Alternator runs near capacity with full G1000 avionics; failures more common than analog variants
- !Marginal performance at high density altitude with full fuel and four occupants
Diamond DA40 Diamond Star
The Diamond DA40 Diamond Star is a modern composite four-seat single that has become one of the most popular training and personal aircraft of the 21st century. Built in Austria and Canada, the DA40 combines Diamond's composite construction expertise with either a Lycoming IO-360 (180HP) or the innovative Austro AE 300 diesel engine (168HP, jet fuel capable) in the DA40 NG variant.
- +Excellent safety record with docile handling and resistant-to-spin characteristics
- +Exceptional fuel efficiency, especially NG diesel variant (5-7 GPH)
- +Modern composite construction with worldwide parts and service support
- !Castering nosewheel requires learning curve and differential braking technique
- !Moderate cruise speed (147 KTAS) limits business travel appeal
- !Limited baggage capacity and four-seat constraint
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