Forget the sleek, futuristic designs of today – there's a certain undeniable charm to the aircraft of yesteryear, a nostalgic nod to an era of bold lines and distinctive style. And the team at Aircraft For Sale has just spotlighted a vintage beauty that's got us doing a double-take: a 1978 Piper PA-32RT-300 Lance II. This isn't just any old airplane; it's a fascinating piece of aviation history that offers a unique blend of retro aesthetics and surprising practicality.
Back in the mid-1970s, Piper Aircraft saw a sweet spot in the market. They had the popular six-place Cherokee Six, a reliable workhorse known for its ability to haul significant cargo and passengers. But they envisioned something a little more… aspirational. Enter the Lance, a clever evolution of the Cherokee Six, but with a key upgrade that turned heads and boosted performance: retractable landing gear.
This simple yet significant change transformed the Lance. Tucking away the wheels streamlined the aircraft, making it noticeably faster and more fuel-efficient. But Piper's engineers were smart; they didn't sacrifice the Lance's renowned high useful load in the pursuit of speed. Subtle tweaks to the engine compartment ensured it could still carry a substantial amount of people and gear, making it a truly versatile machine.
Now, let's talk about the eye candy. The 1978 model year was a pivotal one for the Lance, as Piper embraced the "in vogue" T-tail design that was all the rage in general aviation at the time. Today, this distinctive tail gives the '78 Lance a unique and instantly recognizable silhouette. For those who appreciate the bold styling trends of the 1970s, this T-tail isn't just a design choice; it's a statement, enhancing its ramp appeal and turning heads wherever it goes. It's vintage cool with a purpose.
Beneath the retro flair, however, lies a fundamentally practical aircraft. The Lance boasts a roomy cabin that comfortably seats six, making it ideal for families or business teams on the go. The often-preferred club seating arrangement in the cabin fosters a more social and comfortable environment for passengers during longer journeys. Furthermore, the Lance is built upon a straightforward airframe, a characteristic that translates to easier and potentially more economical maintenance – a significant factor for any aircraft owner. In fact, the Lance often stands out as the most budget-friendly option in the realm of six-place piston singles.
The specific 1978 Lance II currently listed on AircraftForSale has logged a reasonable 5,667 hours on the airframe. Its 300 hp Lycoming IO-540 engine, a reliable powerhouse, has 950 hours since its last overhaul, indicating plenty of life left. The three-blade propeller also has a healthy 750 hours. When it comes to avionics, this Lance is equipped for modern navigation and communication, featuring a Garmin 340 audio panel, a trusty Garmin GNS 430 GPS/nav/com, a Garmin GTX 345 transponder with both ADS-B In and Out for enhanced situational awareness, a King KX155 nav/com, an engine analyzer to keep a close eye on performance, and a Piper Altimatic III autopilot with altitude hold for those longer cross-country legs.
For pilots who crave the added space and flexibility of a six-place cabin without breaking the bank, especially for those frequent cross-country trips with family or for business, this 1978 Piper PA-32RT-300 Lance II presents a compelling opportunity. It's a chance to own an aircraft with a distinctive vintage style, the practicality of a spacious cabin, and the reassurance of a well-maintained engine and modern avionics – all for a price of $164,500. This Lance isn't just a way to fly; it's a statement, a blend of retro charm and reliable performance ready for its next adventure. Could this be your ticket to the skies in style?
