My airplane partner just completed the owner-assisted annual on our 172E (O-300D engine) with our A&P. I've been traveling too much and couldn't participate in person this time around. He said there were quite a few more covers to take off for inspection, but otherwise there were no major differences.

The annual inspection cost was about the same as for the 150 ($600 plus $200 for a dynamic prop balance that wasn't really a requirement). This is the first annual we've done on the 152XL that we acquired a couple of months ago. I am very happy that nothing major was found and we did do a pretty thorough inspection.

Miles per gallon are similar when you take into account the speed difference. You can always fly the 172 at less than full throttle and get pretty good fuel consumption.

The 150 is a little more fun for flying close to the airport, but the 172 is better for cross country flying and a lot more comfortable for taller people like me. A 150 with the front cabin size of the 172 would be ideal for me.

The cost of insurance for the 172 is within $100/year of the cost of the 150.

Tie-down fees or hangar space costs the same for both planes.

So far I'm pretty happy with moving up from the 150G to the 172E. I will miss the 150 once we sell it, though. I do like its looks and upgraded interior better than the 172, plus its airworthiness certificate was issued the exact day my wife was born! If I had more time to fly I might consider keeping both planes.

Henry
N2011X - 1965 C182H