1948 Cessna 170: A Vintage Aviation Gem Ready for a New Owner
A well-preserved 1948 Cessna 170, featuring modern upgrades and a meticulously documented history, is available for $47,500 in La Grande, Oregon. This taildragger offers a blend of classic flying experience and reliable performance.
Aircraft For Sale has highlighted a 1948 Cessna 170 as its latest top pick, showcasing a rare opportunity to own a piece of aviation history. This first-year model, located in La Grande, Oregon, has accumulated 3,151 flight hours and comes with complete logbooks dating back to its original delivery in 1948. The aircraft’s wings were recently recovered using the Stewart Systems fabric covering system, including a UV barrier, and refinished in October 2023 with Stewart Systems EkoPoly, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal.
O-300-C engine, which has logged 1,502 hours since installation. A recent annual inspection in July 2026 confirmed solid compression numbers, and the engine was upgraded with new magnetos in April 2025. The aircraft is equipped with a McCauley fixed-pitch propeller, providing smooth and reliable performance.
The avionics suite blends classic and modern technology, featuring a Garmin GTR 200B com radio and Garmin GTX 327 transponder for communication and squawk functions. Additional navigation aids include a Narco MK12A nav/com and VOA4 indicator. Safety is further enhanced by a 406 MHz ELT with a battery valid through September 2028.
Cleveland wheels and brakes, a Brackett air filter, a Whelen self-contained strobe, and a Cessna cabin heat system for comfortable cruising. A dorsal fin, installed per FAA Form 337, adds a distinctive touch to the aircraft’s profile. Listed at $47,500, this well-maintained 1948 Cessna 170 offers an accessible entry into vintage aviation.
For those considering ownership, FLYING Finance provides tools like an airplane loan calculator and access to aviation finance experts at flyingfinance.com to help make the dream of flying this classic aircraft a reality.
Source: FLYING Magazine