This 1973 Cessna 182P Skylane Is a STOL-Optimized ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

High-performance 260 hp conversion pairs an incredibly clean airframe with IFR stack and S-Tec autopilot.

FLYING Staff

Monday, June 01, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

1973 Cessna 182P Skylane [Credit: Todd Peterson]

Key Takeaways:

Today's Top Pick is a 1973 Cessna 182P Skylane Peterson 260SE, a specialized conversion transforming the standard model into an absolute short takeoff and landing (STOL) powerhouse.
The Peterson 260SE conversion features a 260 hp fuel-injected Continental IO-470 engine, significantly boosting power and optimizing for aggressive climbs and short takeoffs with only 488 hours logged.
This rare aircraft offers exceptional mission flexibility, combining short-field capability for remote areas with comfortable four-seat cross-country cruising, enhanced by long-range fuel tanks and a premium custom interior, priced at $300,000.

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Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale chooses an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, a good deal, or has other qualities we find interesting. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1973 Cessna 182P Skylane Peterson 260SE.

Standard factory Skylanes are globally respected for hauling heavy loads out of reasonable strips, but the Peterson 260SE conversion completely rewrites the high-wing playbook. By pairing a high-horsepower powerplant modification with unique aerodynamic enhancements, this specialized conversion transforms a predictable cross-country staple into an absolute short takeoff and landing (STOL) powerhouse.

If you want an airplane that can safely drop into remote, unpaved ridgelines but still cruise comfortably across state lines with a true four-seat cabin, this rare specimen offers a level of mission flexibility that standard factory singles simply cannot match.

The real magic of the Peterson conversion happens under the cowl. Replacing the stock engine is a factory fuel-injected Continental IO-470 engine pushing out a muscular 260 hp—a substantial 30 hp boost over a stock 182.

With only 488 hours logged, the powerplant has barely been broken in. The firewall-forward environment is heavily optimized for modern efficiency and mechanical longevity, utilizing GAMIjectors for highly balanced fuel distribution and a modern spin-on oil filter for straightforward maintenance. The extra muscle drastically shortens takeoff rolls and delivers an aggressive climb rate that makes high-density altitude departures a relaxed affair.

The cabin features a custom four-place leather interior designed for long-distance comfort. The flight deck is packed with premium convenience upgrades, including an articulating pilot’s seat, Rosen sun visors, high-flow Soros air vents, a vertical card compass, and a standby vacuum system for backup instrument safety. Crucially, the aircraft is equipped with factory long-range fuel tanks, providing the deep endurance needed to unlock remote wilderness destinations or outlast headwinds on long cross-country legs.

1973 Cessna 182P Skylane [Credit: Todd Peterson]

On the ramp, the aircraft presents extremely well, finished in a custom urethane paint scheme that remains in good condition. The exterior is enhanced by wingtip strobes, high-intensity LED landing lights, and durable stainless steel fasteners. Inside the four-place cabin, occupants are treated to a comfortable custom leather interior in good condition.

Listed at $300,000, this 1973 Cessna 182P Peterson 260SE offers a turnkey gateway to elite short-field performance and timeless high-wing stability.

If you’re exploring ownership options, FLYING Finance can help get you airborne. Use our airplane loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments, or connect with an aviation finance expert at flyingfinance.com.