It’s been 45 years since Piper stretched the Cherokee fuselage to create the Six, and the much refined version of the airplane remains in production as the Saratoga II. That kind of production longevity is proof that Piper found an enduring market niche for the PA-32 family, and solid demand on the used market even in today’s depressed conditions is additional evidence that the airplane can do what others can’t.
Six Seat Stalwart: Used PA-32 Review
Key Takeaways:
- The Piper PA-32 family (Cherokee Six, Lance, Saratoga) has maintained production and strong market demand for over 45 years, primarily due to its exceptional cabin room, easy loading via dual doors (passenger and large baggage), and overall utility for carrying passengers and cargo.
- The aircraft evolved from the fixed-gear Cherokee Six to the retractable-gear Lance (which included an unpopular T-tail variant), and later to the refined Saratoga featuring a tapered wing, improved aerodynamics, and advanced avionics in its latest iterations.
- Powered by the highly-regarded Lycoming 540 engine, the PA-32 series prioritizes utility and payload over speed, offering a durable airframe and significant value in the used aircraft market, with prices varying based on model, condition, and equipment.
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