Owning your own plane may sound like a luxury reserved for the elite, but with the rise of the second-hand aircraft market, it’s more affordable than ever. Four-seater planes are particularly popular because they offer a great balance between passenger capacity, comfort, and cost.
If you’re wondering what kind of price tag comes with a used 4-seater plane — you’re in the right place. In this extended guide, we’ll break down prices by brand, explore what impacts the cost, and help you shop smart for your dream aircraft.
✈️ Popular Plane Manufacturers with 4-Seater Models
Let’s take a closer look at the top aircraft manufacturers offering four-seater airplanes, and what you can expect to pay for their used models.
🛩️ Cessna (Textron Aviation)
Cessna is one of the most recognized names in general aviation, with the Cessna 172 Skyhawk being the world’s most-produced aircraft.
- Cessna 172 Skyhawk
- Reliable, easy to fly, widely available
- Used Price Range: $50,000 – $250,000+
- Cessna 177 Cardinal
- Sleeker, more modern design than the 172
- Used Price Range: $60,000 – $140,000
- Cessna 182 Skylane
- More powerful engine, longer range
- Used Price Range: $90,000 – $300,000+
🛩️ Piper Aircraft
Known for its low-wing designs and solid performance, Piper has been a go-to brand for decades.
- Piper PA-28 Cherokee / Archer / Warrior
- Affordable entry-level 4-seaters
- Used Price Range: $45,000 – $200,000
- Piper Arrow (Retractable Gear)
- A step up with complex aircraft features
- Used Price Range: $70,000 – $220,000
- Piper Dakota
- High-performance variant of the Cherokee
- Used Price Range: $130,000 – $250,000
🛩️ Beechcraft (Textron Aviation)
Beechcraft offers quality and performance, often geared toward more experienced pilots.
- Beechcraft Sundowner (Model 23)
- Smooth ride and roomy cabin
- Used Price Range: $40,000 – $100,000
- Beechcraft Bonanza (A36, F33)
- Luxury-class 4- to 6-seater aircraft
- Used Price Range: $150,000 – $600,000+
🛩️ Mooney International
Mooney aircraft are known for speed and efficiency. If you’re looking for a fast 4-seater, Mooney might be your match.
- Mooney M20 Series (J, K, M, R)
- Retractable gear, high cruise speeds
- Used Price Range: $70,000 – $350,000+
🛩️ Cirrus Aircraft
Cirrus has redefined luxury in general aviation with cutting-edge avionics and built-in parachute systems.
- Cirrus SR20
- Great for new pilots with a premium feel
- Used Price Range: $220,000 – $450,000
- Cirrus SR22
- Top-tier performance and comfort
- Used Price Range: $350,000 – $900,000+
🛩️ Diamond Aircraft
Known for modern composite materials and sleek design, Diamond Aircraft combines efficiency and innovation.
- Diamond DA40
- Fuel-efficient and trainer-friendly
- Used Price Range: $180,000 – $450,000
- Diamond DA42 (Twin-engine, 4-seater)
- Advanced IFR trainer or touring aircraft
- Used Price Range: $350,000 – $700,000+
🛩️ Grumman American (Gulfstream American)
Although no longer in production, Grumman American’s 4-seaters still offer strong value on the used market.
- Grumman AA-5 Traveler / Tiger / Cheetah
- Sporty feel, low maintenance
- Used Price Range: $30,000 – $100,000
🛩️ Robin Aircraft (France)
Popular in Europe, Robin’s wooden wing aircraft are known for smooth handling and comfort.
- Robin DR400
- Great for short-field landings
- Used Price Range: $60,000 – $150,000
🛩️ Socata (Now Daher, France)
Socata aircraft offer sleek design and strong performance, often favored by European pilots.
- Socata TB-10 Tobago / TB-20 Trinidad
- Comfortable touring aircraft with great cockpit visibility
- Used Price Range: $90,000 – $220,000
💡 What Else Impacts Cost Besides Brand?
No matter the manufacturer, here are key pricing factors:
| Factor | Impact |
|---|---|
| Avionics | Modern glass cockpits add $20,000–$100,000+ |
| Engine Time | Mid-time or zero-time engines increase value |
| Paint & Interior | Refurbished or custom interiors add resale value |
| Location | U.S.-based planes often cheaper than Europe or Asia |
| Ownership History | Single-owner and well-documented planes carry a premium |
🧮 Don’t Forget the Operating Costs
Ownership isn’t just about the sticker price. Be prepared for:
- Insurance: $1,500 – $3,000/year
- Hangar Fees: $2,000 – $6,000/year
- Maintenance: $3,000 – $10,000/year
- Fuel: $30–$60 per flight hour (Avgas 100LL)
- Annual Inspection: $1,200 – $2,500
✅ Conclusion: Which Brand Is Best for You?
If you’re a first-time buyer on a budget, Cessna or Piper models are solid, affordable choices. If you value modern avionics, luxury, or high performance, Cirrus, Mooney, or Diamond might be more your speed. For European pilots, Robin and Socata offer great local options with comfortable cabins.
No matter which route you take, buying a used 4-seater is an exciting investment in your freedom and lifestyle.
🔍 Start Your Search Today on JetSetZone.com
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