![1976 Piper PA-32R-300 Lance [Credit: R3 Aviation]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/aircraft-single-engine-piston-piper-pa-32r-300-lance-for-sale-601350-93e6774e4fedbb98-800X600-1.jpg)
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 1976 Piper PA-32R-300 Lance.
Finding an aircraft that can genuinely balance the demands of a growing family, heavy baggage, long-distance speed, and pilot peace of mind usually requires stepping into a modern price bracket that pushes past the $1 million mark. However, every so often, a classic airframe emerges that has been thoughtfully guided into the modern era by someone who understands exactly what makes a cross-country machine exceptional.
Built on the rugged, spacious foundation of the Cherokee Six, the Lance added retractable landing gear to streamline its profile and squeeze more speed out of its muscular 300 hp powerplant. It instantly became a legend for its ability to haul nearly anything that could fit through its wide rear doors. But while many 1970s heavy haulers have grown tired, this particular U.S.-registered example has been treated to a comprehensive mechanical and electronic rebirth.
Hangared in Roxboro, North Carolina, the airframe shows 4,150 hours since new. The aircraft’s pedigree is backed by a fresh, meticulous annual inspection completed in March 2026, meaning its next owner is clear of major inspections until April 2027. With an IFR certification valid through July 2026 and complete digital logbooks ready for immediate transparency, this Lance stands ready for a seamless transition to its next hangar.
In 2021, the heavy-lifting Lycoming IO-540-K1A5D engine underwent a comprehensive major overhaul. With just 304 hours logged since that overhaul, the powerplant is essentially in its prime. During its recent annual, compressions returned outstanding numbers, all checking out at 76/80 or higher. Paired with a fresh starter installed in 2022 and a three-blade Hartzell propeller matching the engine’s low 304 hours, the mechanical foundation of this cross-country cruiser is rock solid.
The instrument panel has been dramatically modernized into a clean, intuitive glass workspace. Directly in front of the pilot sit dual Garmin GI-275 electronic flight displays, seamlessly handling primary flight instrumentation, multi-function map displays, and highly accurate digital engine monitoring. The avionics stack pairs a Garmin GNS 530 and a touchscreen GNX 375 GPS/Transponder with a traditional King KX 155 nav/comm and Garmin GMA 340 audio panel.
Managed by a reliable Piper Altimatic IIIC autopilot, a Shadin AMS 2000 altitude management system, and supported by a Precise Flight standby vacuum system, this panel makes long-range IFR flights in complex airspace an exercise in relaxed situational awareness. Dual USB ports also ensure that tablets and phones remain fully charged on long legs.
Listed at $194,900, this aircraft offers a low-time, factory-grade engine overhaul, advanced Garmin glass panel, and unmatched hauling utility for a fraction of the cost of a new piston single.
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.
- FLYING Magazine: Air Compare: Piper Lance vs. Saratoga
- FLYING Magazine: Piper Saratoga Avionics Install: Part 1
- Plane + Pilot: Piper Cherokee Six/Lance/Saratoga
- Plane + Pilot: Piper Lance/Turbo Lance
- Plane + Pilot: Piper Saratoga
- The Aviation Consumer: Used Aircraft Guide: Piper Saratoga and Lance
