Cessna 150 vs 152: Differences Between the Aircraft Models

Behind every professional pilot is a student pilot who once started with a first logbook entry and a goal of earning a private pilot certificate.

For many, that journey begins in some of the most affordable training airplanes—often a Cessna 150 or Cessna 152 (and sometimes the Cessna 172). They may look similar at first glance, but they aren’t the same aircraft.

In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the Cessna 150 and 152—two popular aircraft still used for flight training and personal ownership today.

Let’s get into it.

(By John Davies - Wikimedia Commons, GFDL 1.2)

History of the Cessna 150

The Cessna 150 is a high-wing aircraft introduced in 1959 after the success of earlier Cessna models like the Cessna 140.

Between 1958 and 1977, the 150 went through numerous refinements and variations (including versions produced by Reims Aviation). Many changes were incremental, but the aircraft remained well-known for being predictable, simple, and well-suited for training.

When first introduced, the Cessna 150 was offered in four versions:

1. Standard
2. Trainer
3. Commuter
4. Patroller

Cessna marketed the 150 as a premier two-seat trainer. Design choices like side-by-side seating and tricycle landing gear made instruction and ground handling easier than earlier tailwheel trainers.

150 Variants

The Cessna 150 series is commonly grouped into these variants:

1. 150
2. 150A
3. 150B
4. 150C
5. 150D
6. 150E
7. 150F
8. 150G
9. 150H
10. 150I
11. 150J
12. 150K
13. 150L
14. 150M
15. FRA150L Aerobat
16. FRA150M

(By FlugKerl2 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0)

History of the Cessna 152

By the time the Cessna 152 arrived in 1978, tens of thousands of 150s were already in service. The 152 was essentially an updated version designed to improve payload, performance, and overall efficiency.

One major change was the engine: the 152 used a 110 hp Lycoming O-235, providing a bit more power compared to the 150’s Continental O-200.

Production continued into the mid-1980s, and the 152 remains widely used today thanks to its stability, simple systems, and training-friendly handling.

152 Variants

The Cessna 152 had four primary variants:

1. 152
2. F152
3. A152
4. FA152

All are powered by Lycoming O-235 engines.

Note: The “152 II,” “152 T,” and “152 Aviat” are typically considered equipment or refurbishment packages rather than distinct model variants.

(By Peter Somogyi-Tóth and Ahunt)

Differences Between the Cessna 150 and Cessna 152

The Cessna 150 and 152 are both beloved two-seat trainers with similar overall design. While they can look nearly identical, the 152 includes updates that can matter for training, performance, and ownership.

Engines

• 150: Continental O-200-A, air-cooled, horizontally opposed, 100 hp (75 kW)
• 152: Lycoming O-235-L2C, flat-4, 110 hp (82 kW)

Speed

• 150: Max speed 125 mph (202 km/h); stall 48 mph (78 km/h)
• 152: Max speed 126 mph (203 km/h); stall 49 mph (79 km/h)

Weight

• 150: Empty 1,060 lb (481 kg); gross 1,600 lb (726 kg)
• 152: Empty 1,081 lb (490 kg); gross 1,670 lb (757 kg)

Size

• 150: Length 23 ft 11 in (7.29 m); wingspan 33 ft 2 in (10.11 m); height 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m); wing area 160 sq ft (15 m²)
• 152: Length 24 ft 1 in (7.34 m); wingspan 33 ft 4 in (10.16 m); height 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m); wing area 160 sq ft (15 m²)

Fuel

• 150: Usable fuel 22.5 US gal (85 L); typical burn ~5.6 gph
• 152: Fuel capacity varies by tank configuration (standard vs long range); typical burn ~6.1 gph

Oil Capacity

• 150: Typically 6 quarts (some later models 7 quarts)
• 152: Typically 7 quarts

Capacity Notes

• 150: Two seats; some configurations allow an optional baggage-area bench for small children (limited by published weight restrictions).
• 152: Two seats; some configurations allow an optional baggage-area bench for small children (limited by published weight restrictions).

(By Alec BHX/KKC - Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0)

Additional Differences

• 150: Service ceiling 14,000 ft (4,300 m); ROC 670 ft/min (3.4 m/s); range ~420 nmi (econ cruise, standard fuel); typically a 2-blade fixed-pitch McCauley prop
• 152: Service ceiling 14,700 ft (4,500 m); ROC 715 ft/min (3.63 m/s); ferry range up to ~691 nmi with long-range tanks; typically a 2-blade fixed-pitch McCauley or Sensenich prop

(By Anneli Salo - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0)

Similarities Between the Cessna 150 and 152

• Both are high-wing, two-seat, trainer-friendly aircraft.
• Both use 4-cylinder piston engines.
• Both typically use fixed-pitch propellers.
• Both have relatively light wing loading, so bumps can feel more noticeable in turbulence.

Light Aircraft (Not Light-Sport Aircraft)

Both the Cessna 150 and 152 are light aircraft, but they generally do not qualify as light-sport aircraft due to weight and other criteria.

If your goal is to fly these types, you’ll typically need at least a recreational pilot license or a private pilot license.

(By Ahunt)

Which Model is Better?

“Better” depends on your mission. Here are a few practical ways pilots compare the two:

Training and Transition

The Cessna 150 is often praised as a straightforward trainer with forgiving handling and modest power.

The 152 can feel like a natural step toward more powerful training aircraft, and some pilots prefer the extra horsepower—especially on warm days or with heavier occupants.

Cross-Country Flight Planning

If equipped with long-range tanks, the Cessna 152 can offer more flexibility for longer legs. Just remember: more fuel also adds weight, so performance planning matters.

Fuel Costs

The 150 is typically slightly more fuel efficient (~5.6 gph vs ~6.1 gph). Over time, that can add up, especially during training.

Engine Performance

The 152’s extra 10 hp can improve climb and performance margins, which may matter depending on density altitude and loading.

Maximum Takeoff Weight

The 152 generally allows a higher gross weight than the 150, which can help with payload flexibility—especially with two adults onboard.

(By Arpingstone - Public Domain)

Cessna 150 vs 152: Which is More Affordable?

Both models are known for being relatively affordable, reliable legacy aircraft. Most examples are older, and many will not have modern avionics unless upgraded by prior owners.

When evaluating either aircraft, the bigger question is often not just purchase price, but the total cost to maintain, update, and keep the airplane airworthy.

Cost of Purchasing a Cessna 150

According to listings on Controller.com, a well-maintained used Cessna 150 is commonly listed in the range of $37,000–$85,000, depending on condition, time on engine, avionics, and maintenance history.

Cost of Purchasing a Cessna 152

According to listings on Controller.com, a well-maintained used Cessna 152 is commonly listed in the range of $50,000–$93,000, depending on equipment, condition, and upgrades.

(By redlegsfan21 - CC BY-SA 2.0)

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is a Cessna 150 or 152 better for student pilots?

  Both are excellent trainers. Many students learn in either one, depending on what their flight school operates. The 152’s extra power can be helpful for performance margins, while the 150 is often praised for being simple and economical.

• Which airplane is roomier: the 150 or 152?

  They’re very similar in cabin size, but some pilots feel the 152’s interior layout is slightly more comfortable depending on year and configuration.

• Which one is cheaper to operate?

  In general, the 150 tends to burn a little less fuel, which can help keep hourly costs down. Real-world operating costs also depend heavily on maintenance, engine time, and avionics.

• Can you use either aircraft for cross-country flights?

  Yes. Both can handle cross-country trips, but planning is key—especially with payload, winds, and fuel reserves. A 152 equipped with long-range tanks may offer more flexibility.

• What should I look for if I’m buying a 150 or 152?

  Focus on maintenance records, engine/prop time, corrosion history, avionics condition, and overall airworthiness. A pre-buy inspection by a trusted mechanic is strongly recommended.

Takeaway

The Cessna 150 and Cessna 152 have played a major role in training generations of pilots. They share a similar mission and design, but differ in engine, performance, fuel system options, and useful load.

If you’re deciding between the two, consider your priorities: training costs, performance margins, payload flexibility, and how you plan to use the aircraft long-term.

If you’re curious, check your local flight schools and ask if they offer discovery flights in a 150 or 152. Your first steps toward a life in the skies begin with that first takeoff—make it one to remember.

Did you like learning about the Cessna 150 and 152?

If you enjoyed this article, check out these aircraft guides:

• History: The Cessna 170B and Its Specifications
• Cessna 172 (10 Things You Need to Know)
• Cessna 340 (All the Details You Need)
• Piper PA-46 M350 (Malibu Mirage): The Ultimate in Single-Engine Pressurized Comfort
• High Wing vs Low Wing: What’s the Difference Between Them?

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