In article nospam-F0BE06.18040312022004@shawnews, tony roberts
wrote:

When I look for older Cessna 172 models, I have noticed that there doesn't
seem to be any in the 1987 to 1996 range for sale.
Did Cessna not build any during these years?

Correct.
Liability suits were killing them. I understand that their reason for
moving baqck into GA piston singles was a change to the statute of
limitations.

General Aviation Revitalization Act of 1996.
Removed liability for parts and products more than 18 years old.