Hugh Johnson said:
I stand corrected. I wonder why the built so few then. Theres usually a reason. I bet the head of Dassault had to use the toilet and cancelled the program.
Ya know, that's how suff happens, I'm sure.
They built 225 airplanes. Most are still in service. The last 25 or so we're 100's. The only significant differences we're Collins EFIS, a 4th cabin window on the starboard side, std aft baggage, std TR's and a gross weight increase to 19,400.
Today, there are many earlier ones that have modded with EFIS systems better than those in the 100's. The 100's were also heavier airplanes. The GW increase is via a SB, so some early ones are also 19400 airplanes.
Most also have the tailcone baggage as well.
The airplane is an easy 1300 nm plane. It holds 5900 lbs of fuel and .80 burns are 1800, 1500, 1300. That leaves a 1200 reserve. Plenty in good wx.
If I were shopping for one today I'd look for one with an EFIS mod, higher gross and no TR's.
Those Grumman TR's weigh 600 or 700 lbs vs. a non-TR plane. And unless you are going to be using really short runways, they are not needed. Typical ref speeds are 110 to 115.
A non-TR airplane with have a BOW of 11,500 or maybe a touch less. Add in 5900 lbs of fuel and that leaves you with an available payload of 2000 lbs! Pretty darn good on a 8 place (max) airplane. You literally cannot over gross a 10 with the 19.4 weight.
It's the nicest plane I have ever flown. If you have any other specific questions, I'd be glad to answer them.