Cessna Aircraft Company has produced aircraft designs of such renown that they have become almost synonymous with light airplanes.  Among the most popular of Cessna's designs, which are found throughout the world, are the older 170 and newer 172 series.  The Cessna 170 series was first available for sale in 1948 and was made into a four passenger aircraft from an original two-seat model once the engine horsepower was increased.  The Cessna 170 is an all-metal airplane that appeared at a time when most light aircraft were constructed of fabric over a steel pipe frame.  Beyond their structure, Cessna 170s were relatively easy to fly, easy to maintain and cheaper in price.  The United States Army also realized the value of the 170 and purchased 3,000 military L-19 "Bird Dog" variants for use as both liaison and observation aircraft.  The Japanese Self Defense Force also ordered 100 L-19's for use in and around the Japanese Home Islands.  In 1956 production of the Cessna 170 was stopped and the new tricycle landing gear configured 172 became available in the aircraft market.  With the Cessna 172 series, performance was improved through the introduction of a stronger yet light landing gear and a complete redesign of the tail wing.  The Cessna 172 went on to assume the number one position in the light aircraft industry and has continued to improve with the release of each new model year.  While at first sight, the 172 appears simple in design, its excellent stability in the air, straight forward service and maintenance requirements and low cost to maintain have made it a popular choice for business use, flight training, flying clubs and sport aviation circles.  The Cessna Skyhawk, which is the subject of this scaled model, is the Deluxe Model of the 172.  It is powered by a 150 horsepower Lycoming engine which gives it the following operational characteristics: 1) Top speed of 140 mph; 2) Range of 615 miles and 3) Service ceiling of just over 13,000 feet.  This older, out-of-production Cessna Skyhawk scale model includes the following features: 1) Authentic serial number decals and other graphics; 2) Clear plastic cockpit cabin "glass" areas; 3) Detailed cockpit; 4) Detailed engine; 5) Recessed panel lines; 6) Painting guide and 7) Illustrated assembly instructions.  The box is in like-new condition.  Never started and factory sealed.