C-172 versus Sundowner

I used to belong to a club that had a C172 and now I own a pristine '75
Sundowner. For me the Sundowner wins hands down. Plain and simple - I
think you get more for your money. My Sundowner is more stable in
turbulence and handles crosswind landings easier. I average about 115
knots and 10 gph.

I also much prefer the cabin and instrument panel layout, and it is way
more comfortable on long trips - my wife and I have gone from the
northeast to Utah and Georgia a few times.

My 2 cents.. hope it helps.


wrote:
So I've been looking to buy a C-172 and came across this Sundowner.

I've heard all the "Slowdowner" stories and did a side-by-side
from the published specs:

Cruise speed and roc: Sundowner slightly better

Payload: Sundowner slightly better

Runway required: C-172 slightly better.

Fuel burn: C-172 better

Interior room: Sundowner better

Quirks: C-172 none, Sundowner appears to require a bit of dual to
learn how to land without porpoising.

Interior room: Sundowner better

Maintenance: C-172 a bit cheaper (according to my local wrench)

Price: Sundowner $20k - $30k cheaper than comperable TTAF/SMOH/equipped
C-172s, this buys a lot of fuel and maintenance.

I have no intention of ever going to anything other than a paved strip.

Comments?

--
Jim Pennino

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