When Cessna introduced the Cardinal in 1968, it was, by the standards of the day, quite leap. Sans the familiar struts of the 172/182 line and with its rakish windshield, the Cardinal could fairly be called sleek. It was large doors that allowed easy access to the both the front and rear seats, the Cardinal proved popular with owners, even if it didn't sell huge numbers.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original entry at https://www.avweb.com/ownership/refurb-of-the-month-martin-familys-cardinal-rg