Cessna 210: Definition, Specifications, Performance

Cessna 210 is a high-performance single-engine aircraft recognized for its part in general aviation. The Cessna 210 features a robust airframe, advanced avionics, and a piston engine designed for efficient flight performance. Pilots operate the Cessna 210 with attention to its specifications, including range, payload capacity, and takeoff requirements. Maintenance of the aircraft demands adherence to its manual, providing safety and reliability during service. Learn about the Cessna 210's systems, wing design, baggage capacity, and seating configuration.

The Cessna 210 Centurion accommodates six seats and includes retractable tricycle landing gear, which enhances takeoff and landing efficiency. A Continental IO-520-L engine powers the aircraft, producing 285/300 horsepower. The maximum speed reaches 174 knots, with a normal cruise speed of 170 knots. The service ceiling stands at 17,300 feet (5,273 meters), and the maximum takeoff weight is 3,800 pounds (1,724 kilograms). The high-wing design ensures stability, while all-metal construction contributes to durability and a sleek appearance.

The Cessna T210N Turbo Centurion II variant supports a maximum takeoff weight of 4,000 pounds (1,814 kilograms) and is powered by a Continental Motors TSIO-520-R engine producing 310 horsepower (231 kilowatts). This turbocharged engine enhances high-altitude performance, increasing the service ceiling to 20,700 feet (6,309 meters). The wingspan measures 36 feet 9 inches (11.2 meters), and the empty weight ranges from 2,238 to 2,303 pounds (1,015 to 1,045 kilograms). Fuel capacity reaches 90 gallons (340.69 liters), enabling extended missions under optimal conditions.

Cessna 210 Centurion aircraft are listed for sale on online marketplaces: Trade-A-Plane, Controller.com, Barnstormers, AircraftDealer.com, and GlobalAir. Trade-A-Plane updates listings daily, while Controller.com provides price data ranging from $105,000 to $903,662. Aviation brokers connect buyers with exclusive sales opportunities, and certified dealerships offer hands-on inspections. Platforms like AvBuyer enhance transaction trust, and GlobalAir facilitates regional price comparisons.

What is the Cessna 210 Centurion?

The Cessna 210 Centurion is a high-performance, single-engined, six-seat aircraft with retractable gear, designed for general aviation and known for its substantial payload capability, smooth flying experience, and versatility in both personal and family trips. The Cessna 210 Centurion features retractable tricycle landing gear, augmenting its efficiency during takeoff and landing. Powered by a Continental IO-520-L engine rated at 285/300 horsepower, the aircraft achieves a maximum speed of 174 knots and a normal cruise speed of 170 knots. With a service ceiling of 17,300 feet (5,273 meters) and a maximum takeoff weight of 3,800 pounds (1,724 kilograms), the Cessna 210 Centurion offers substantial payload capability for personal or business use. The high-wing design provides stability, while the all-metal construction ensures durability and a sleek appearance. Retractable gear reduces ground effect, contributing to a smooth flying experience ideal for quick cross-country flights.

The Cessna 210 Centurion series includes multiple variants, with the Cessna T210N Turbo Centurion II standing out as a notable model. The T210N variant features a Continental Motors TSIO-520-R engine producing 310 horsepower (231 kilowatts), enabling a maximum takeoff weight of 4,000 pounds (1,814 kilograms). This turbocharged engine enhances high-altitude performance, making it suitable for operations in varied atmospheric conditions. Pilots favor the Cessna 210 family for its reliability and versatility, with each model building on advancements from earlier versions. The evolution of the series reflects Cessna Aircraft Company’s commitment to balancing performance, comfort, and practicality.

Operational characteristics of the Cessna 210 Centurion highlight the advantages of retractable gear aircraft landing gear. Retractable tricycle landing gear reduces drag during flight, improving aerodynamic efficiency and operational flexibility. Maintenance focuses on landing gear mechanism and engine performance, assuring safety and reliability. The all-metal construction of the Cessna 210 Centurion contributes to its durability, while widely available parts simplify upkeep. Single-engine aircraft configuration simplifies engine management, broadening pilot accessibility and ease of operation.

Specifications of the Cessna 210 Centurion include a length of 28 feet 2 inches (8.58 meters) and a wingspan of 36 feet 6 inches (11.13 meters) for standard models, with the T210N variant extending to 36 feet 9 inches (11.2 meters). Empty weight ranges from 2,238 (1,015 kilograms) to 2,303 (1,045 kilograms) pounds, and fuel capacity reaches 90 (340 liters) gallons. Cruise speed achieves up to 170 knots (314.8 kilometers per hour), with service ceilings varying between 17,300 feet (5273.44 meters) and 20,700 feet (6309.36 meters) depending on the model. The combination of robust construction and high-performance capabilities secures the Cessna 210 Centurion’s popularity in the general aviation aircraft category.

What are the specifications of the Cessna 210 Centurion?

The specifications of the Cessna 210 Centurion are given in the table below.

Operational range distance depends on factors like fuel capacity and cruise speed, enabling extended missions under optimal conditions. Turbocharged variants like the T210N enhance high-altitude performance, further extending the service ceiling.

The cabin offers a volume of 104 cubic feet, accommodating one crew member and up to five passengers.

What is the cabin pressure of a Cessna 210?

The cabin pressure of a Cessna 210, specifically the pressurized P210 version, is maintained by a maximum pressure differential of 3.35 psi (0.231 MPa), allowing a cabin altitude below 12,500 feet (3810 meters) at FL230, and enabling operation at high-altitudes without supplemental oxygen. At FL200, the cabin altitude reaches 10,000 feet (3048 meters), while at FL230, it remains below 12,500 feet (3810 meters). The system allows pilots to fly at high altitudes without requiring supplemental oxygen. In some cases, the achieved pressure differential increases to 3.37 psi. The Malibu, in comparison, maintains a cabin altitude of about 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) at FL200 (6,960 meters).

At FL200, the cabin altitude of the Cessna 210 pressurized version reaches 10,000 feet (3048 meters). The cabin altitude remains below 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) when flying at FL230 (7,010 meters) in the pressurized P210 version. At the aircraft's ceiling, the cabin altitude approaches 11,000 feet (3,352.8 meters), reflecting the limits of its pressurization system. The maximum pressure differential of the Cessna 210 pressurized version is 3.35 psi In specific cases, the achieved pressure differential increases to 3.37 psi. Compared to the Malibu, which maintains a cabin altitude of 5,000 feet (1,524 meters) at FL200 (60,960 meters), the Cessna 210 demonstrates lower pressurization performance. The Cessna 210 pressurized version offers capability for high-altitude flight but with a less robust system than other models.

What is the takeoff distance of a Cessna 210?

The takeoff distance of a Cessna 210 depends on specific conditions, with a balanced field length of 2160 ft (658.37 meters) and a distance of 1110 ft (338.33 meters) to clear a 50-foot (15.24 meters) obstacle under standard conditions. The Cessna 210E requires a ground roll of 1300 ft (396.24 m) at sea level under standard atmospheric conditions. Fuel flow during takeoff with maximum power is 144 lbs/hr (65.32 kg/hr) at 2850 rpm. Reduced power takeoffs operate at 2700 rpm with a fuel flow of 138 lbs/hr (62.6 kg/hr). Similar aircraft models exhibit a ground roll of around 1250 ft (381 meters) under standard conditions, though this value is not explicitly stated for the Cessna 210. Landing distance over a 15-meter (50-foot) obstacle is 784 meters (2575 ft), reflecting the aircraft's performance capabilities.

What engine is used in the Cessna 210?

The engine used in the Cessna 210 is the Continental IO-520-L. The Continental IO-520-L engine is a six-cylinder, horizontally opposed, fuel-injected, and air-cooled engine. Continental Motors manufactures the IO-520-L engine, a leading provider of general aviation engines. The Continental IO-520-L engine is rated at 285/300 horsepower, operating at 2700 RPM for continuous performance. The engine uses a direct drive configuration, connecting the propeller directly to the crankshaft for efficient power delivery. Fuel injection enhances engine performance, reliability, and reduces maintenance requirements.

What are the performance specifications of the Cessna 210?

The performance specifications of the Cessna 210 are given in the table below.

Where to find Cessna 210 Centurion for sale?

To find a Cessna 210 Centurion for sale, explore listings on online aircraft marketplaces like Trade-A-Plane, Controller.com, and Barnstormers. Trade-A-Plane updates its inventory daily, assuring access to the latest Cessna 210 Centurion listings from private sellers and dealers. Controller.com provides market data showing prices ranging from $105,000 to $903,662, offering insight into current values. Barnstormers specializes in detailed classified listings, including a 1960 model Cessna 210 Centurion for niche buyers. AircraftDealer.com lists multiple configurations, including turbo models, with comprehensive specifications for each aircraft. GlobalAir facilitates global price comparisons, enabling informed decisions across regions.

Aviation brokers provide access to an extensive aviation brokers network, connecting buyers with exclusive or pre-owned Cessna 210 Centurion sales opportunities. These brokers specialize in Cessna 210 sales, offering tailor-made listings for buyers, seeking specific configurations. Certified aircraft dealerships offer hands-on experiences in well-equipped aircraft dealerships showrooms, allowing potential buyers to inspect Cessna 210 models before purchase. Reputable dealerships maintain aircraft dealerships certification standards, verifying reliability and safety for each listed aircraft. Classifieds on aviation websites advertisements include detailed descriptions and specifications, providing useful resources for buyers. Platforms like Trade-A-Plane and AvBuyer assure verified sellers and transaction transparency, augmenting trust in trade-a-plane transactions and AvBuyer verification processes. GlobalAir offers aircraft listings, enabling regional price comparisons for informed decisions.

What is the price of a Cessna 210?

The price of a Cessna 210 depends on model year, condition, and features like turbocharging or pressurization. A 1960 Cessna 210 in average retail condition sells for $36,000. A barn-find Cessna 210 requiring restoration is priced at around $68,500. A classic Cessna 210A in good condition commands a price of about $69,000. A 1976 turbocharged T-210 model has an average retail price of $110,000. A well-maintained 1979 P210N with low total time reaches a price of $185,000 in excellent condition.

An early used Cessna 210 in fair condition is priced at $79,000, reflecting its age and operational status. A 1976 turbocharged T-210 model commands an average retail price of $110,000, emphasizing the added value of turbocharging in boosting performance. Late-model variants like the 1979 P210N with low total time achieve a price of $185,000 when in excellent condition, showcasing the premium for well-maintained aircraft. A pre-owned Cessna 210N in well-maintained condition reaches a market value of $250,000, highlighting demand for reliability and performance. Premium-priced late-model Cessna 210s include pressurized variants in pristine condition valued at $279,900, demonstrating the impact of advanced features on pricing. The Cessna 210 cost varies based on specific attributes like model year, condition, and included enhancements.