Aircraft overview

The Cessna 170 is a four seat, tailwheel, high wing piston single built by Cessna from 1948 to 1956. It sits between the earlier two seat Cessna 120 and 140 line and the later tricycle gear Cessna 172, sharing the practical utility that made Cessna high wing aircraft widely used by private owners, flight schools and backcountry pilots. The type matters because it combines classic tailwheel handling with a metal fuselage, good parts support and a large owner community. Early Cessna 170 aircraft used fabric covered wings, while the 170A and 170B introduced important airframe refinements.

Performance & specifications

Most Cessna 170 aircraft are powered by the six cylinder Continental C145 or Continental O 300, rated at 145 hp. Typical cruise speed is about 105 to 115 knots, depending on propeller, rigging, weight and modifications. Usable range is commonly around 450 to 500 nautical miles with standard fuel and sensible reserves. Useful load often falls in the 850 to 950 lb range, but individual aircraft vary significantly with equipment, interior, paint and modifications. Published service ceiling for later models is about 15,500 feet. The aircraft is valued for honest short field capability rather than high cruise speed.

Cabin & avionics

The cabin seats four, with two front seats and a rear bench. Access is through side doors, and baggage space is adequate for light touring if weight and balance are managed carefully. Compared with later Cessna singles, the cabin is simple and relatively narrow, but visibility is good from the high wing layout. Original panels were basic analog installations. Modern examples usually carry mixed avionics rather than factory glass, such as conventional flight instruments, VHF com and nav radios, transponders with ADS B Out, portable GPS units, Garmin GNS or GTN navigators, electronic engine monitors and occasional compact electronic flight displays.

Buying & value

Buyers should distinguish the original 170, the 170A and the 170B. The 170B is often sought for its improved wing and effective flaps, while early aircraft can appeal to purists. Pre purchase review should focus on corrosion, wing and strut condition, landing gear boxes, tailwheel assembly, firewall condition, engine history, fabric condition on early wings, logbook continuity and compliance with applicable airworthiness directives. Common upgrades include 180 hp engine conversions, alternators, improved brakes, STOL kits, vortex generators, shoulder harnesses, larger tires and modern radios. In the current PlaneFox used market, asking prices average about EUR 100,000, with observed listings from roughly EUR 77,000 to EUR 292,000, reflecting condition, modifications, engine time and restoration quality.