If you have not flown a Cardinal then it won’t be clear why it has a cult following. It’s not just another Cessna high wing, it’s the aeroplane they built to refine the 172 but couldn’t afford to produce and sell at a profit. The 177B is the very sweet spot between the 182 and the 172, but to fly it feels more like the 200 series. The stabilator gives a really solid feel in the pitch authority, and the ailerons are the deep chord type like the 210 which makes the whole aeroplane feel entirely different to a 172. The Lycoming 180hp engine and Constant Speed propeller is the perfect match, for performance with economy. We would really struggle to find something as all-round competent to replace this 177B.

If you don’t want a low-time original time warp aeroplane, then N34935 is maybe not the aeroplane for you. If you enjoy turning up in that understated old-money style, that only an original classic can bring, then we don’t need to impress any further on how well this aircraft fits.

This 1974 aeroplane has only 1785hrs total time from new. It’s not a type that was ever used widely for training, and that shows in every way. The top end was done with 4 overhauled cylinders by Jade Air and has 578hrs STOH. The two-blade constant speed has 145hrs SPOH in July 2019 and the prop was fitted new in January 2005. The carry thru spar AD has just been completed, and the spar is in great condition with the full NDT report available along with photos showing the Cor Ban 23 treatment to preserve same. N34935 flies beautifully and makes all the book numbers, we would love to show it to another Cessna enthusiast.