The Cessna 172 is one of the most iconic planes in aviation history. This four-seat, single-engine plane was introduced in 1956 and has become the go-to for recreational pilots around the world.

The 1956 version of the 172 came out of the factory with a price tag of $8,295. This 1969 IFR panel is remarkably capable, with ILS, ADF, and an autopilot, the roll-only Cessna brand Navomatic 300.

More than 72 years have passed since the Cessna 172 first appeared on engineering drawing boards in Kansas, and the airplane still figures into the training plan for many pilots who learn to fly ...