I'm just a mechanic, not owned any aircrafts but played years with both makers. Also PPL years ago and clocked hours on both, 172 and PA-28(140 and Arrow)
There is very good point on earlier posts.
I wouldn't take any six cylinder old 172:s, if needed to haul something. Newer models with either 150 or 160hp Lycomings performs much better. If you want vintage take 172 with six pot Continental, sound is nice and it is quite smooth engine. If flying during winter, or within cold/moist conditions... Continental needs more attention to avoid carb icing.
150/152 is small. I wouldn't take O-200, think it is fine engine but i fixed too many bent pushrods due to sticking valve. This might be small problem in big picture but still never faced similar problems with O-235 on 152. And that ~10hp makes big difference+ 152 is just littlebit roomer from inside. (LOL)
PA-28-140 is bit unpowered with 150hp Lycoming but if you find one with 160 or even 180 hp engine you will enjoy. More critical with CG than C172.
My friend flies with old -140 and hi is big-ish boy, there is always tight calculations how much fuel can be carried. Think 172 is more forgiving with this. Please correct me if i am wrong.
172 can go easily to rough fields, but its NLG is not for offroading... Piper is generaly likes smoother fields.
If you are long, you may be restricted with headroom in Piper.
Both types are fine aircrafts and will give economical flight hours if you find good one. I was happy to fly with both on those days. Mentioned friend who flies with old -140, he is very happy with that old bird. Low costs and reasonable performance, even bit more power wouldn't hurt anyone.
Both types are having some structural inspections now a days but if you find well cared individual these shouldn't create big surprices.
Last edited by Corrosion; 20th November 2019 at 23:06.