The International Cessna^® 170 Association

Can anyone tell me how much difference there is in the performance between the 170A and the 170B.

I had a 170A. Personally, except for the effects of the larger flaps, I don't think there was any noticable difference in speed or performance. The A might have a slight advantage in speed, but very little.

The B uses slightly shorter runways and is VERY slightly more stable due to larger flaps and dihedral.
An active imagination may suggest that dihedral detracts from cruise speed.....but an equally valid
argument can be made that the additional stability of dihedral reduces control inputs, thereby
improving the speed of a B model.
Cessna made no claim other than the B was an improvement in handling and field length performance.
If you are torn between two desireable models......consider condition, pricing, ....and that B models
have greater availability of many airframe parts.

Don't forget that the control cableing allows an extended baggage compartment on the "B" madel for those interested in the extra space for camping gear, etc.
That was an important factor for me.

If I could push a "like button like on Facebook" I'd just agree with George....Hey an Idea for the forums...

Thats exactly what I need to know. I like the extra baggage area for gear and the shorter take off distance. The A models seem to be a little cheeper but I usually choose the most expensive toys anyway. Thank you all for your imput.

Correction: I said shorter take off distance but after reading it again, I imagine that he ment getting into shorter runways with the larger flaps or perhaps, both. I guess the main things is getting back out though.

I still would not pass over a really nice A model as the condition of the plane is way more important than the model year 170 you get. In our area there are no airports that would pose a problem for any 170. I was looking for a 170B when I found a nice 48 and I have no regrets 18 years latter. Unless something happens to my present 170 I will never have a B model as my ragwing takes me everywhere I need to go. Bill K

lovetaildraggers wrote:Correction: I said shorter take off distance but after reading it again, I imagine that he ment getting into shorter runways with the larger flaps or perhaps, both. I guess the main things is getting back out though.

The truth is you can get into anything short with any model of 170. Getting out is a whole another story! D