210 Centurion vs SR20
210 Centurion and SR20 are closely matched, each topping 3 of 7 metrics.
Put the Cessna / Textron Aviation 210 Centurion (introduced 1960) beside the Cirrus Aircraft SR20 (introduced 1999) and the trade-offs sharpen fast. Both are piston singles, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the 210 Centurion carries more passengers. The spec-by-spec breakdown below is followed by a mission-fit read and a buyer's recommendation.
6 more specs per aircraft — ceiling, climb, cabin, dimensions and more — are free with an account.
210 Centurion vs SR20: the key differences
- The SR20 delivers 11% more range (210 Centurion: 900 nm; SR20: 1,000 nm).
- The 210 Centurion delivers 10% more cruise speed (210 Centurion: 170 kt; SR20: 155 kt).
- The 210 Centurion delivers 50% more passenger capacity (210 Centurion: 6 seats; SR20: 4 seats).
- The SR20 is the newer design (introduced 1999 versus 1960 for the 210 Centurion), a gap of 39 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The 210 Centurion is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (3,800 lbs versus 3,150 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The SR20 is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,000 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The 210 Centurion, at 900 nm, is better matched to short-haul and regional hops, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the 210 Centurion's range, the SR20's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the SR20 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 210 Centurion when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 210 Centurion holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
210 Centurion vs SR20: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the 210 Centurion or the SR20?
The SR20 has the longer published range — 1,000 nm versus 900 nm for the 210 Centurion.
Does the 210 Centurion or SR20 seat more passengers?
The 210 Centurion carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 6 seats, compared with 4 on the SR20.
Which is faster, the 210 Centurion or the SR20?
The 210 Centurion cruises faster, at 170 kt versus 155 kt for the SR20.
Which is newer, the 210 Centurion or the SR20?
The SR20 is the newer design, introduced in 1999 versus 1960 for the 210 Centurion.
Is the 210 Centurion or the SR20 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the 210 Centurion is the larger aircraft — 3,800 lbs versus 3,150 lbs for the SR20.
Should I buy the 210 Centurion or the SR20?
Choose the SR20 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the 210 Centurion when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the 210 Centurion holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the 210 Centurion vs SR20?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.