Sierra Vs. Cardinal Vs. Tiger

[Don]

I'd like to spend under 100K for an airplane. I'd like to cruise at 130 Knots or more. I'd really like to be able to go at least 500NM and carry 600lbs in the cabin. Obviously I'd like the costs to be as low as possible.

I think the grumman tiger might be a good fit, I really like beech aircraft and the sierra looks like a good deal and I've always thought Cessna cardinals (The RG model) looked cool.

Comments on how these airplanes fly?

 

[sky37d]

May I suggest


$60,000

It fits in your price range, typically has 1500 # useful, cruise at 150 kts, and it's a Cessna.

 

[skyslug]

As a former Sierra owner, and previous Cardinal flyer I'd have to go with the mighty Sierra! Very comfy, cruises at about 130 kts or so (about 5 kts slower than an Arrow), but it's built Beech tough. I never had a problem with my C24R. It was a wonderful plane, flew very stable, great landing gear (although a bit over engineered) and a solid engine. I'd have to say that you can easily haul 600 lbs in the cabin (yourself included) and fly 500 miles.

Either way, look for a plane that has a solid history, limited if any damage history, complete log books, do a thorough pre-buy inspection with a mechanic you trust (not one that currently works on the plane) and continue to talk with owners of the planes you are looking for.

I did just that and decided on the ole Beech. Good luck in your search!~

 

[throttlejockey]

I would suggest a Mooney 201. I think you are making a big mistake with those other three aircraft. If you are considering being able to resale the aircraft later, the Mooney 201 has a very good track record.

What other 4 place single will do over 160 knots, while still burning 9 gph?

Considering that 100LL will probably not go below $2.00 Gallon ever again, the 201 is the choice for those looking for an efficient X-C aircraft.

tj

 

[moving2vegas]

another suggestion

QUOTE:

"I'd like to spend under 100K for an airplane. I'd like to cruise at 130 Knots or more. I'd really like to be able to go at least 500NM and carry 600lbs in the cabin."

Personally, I think a 182 fits the bill, but there's alot of A/C that fit in your range, and all the ones you mentioned are good ideas including the mooney (although it's a little tight on room). For 100K there's even some twins out there you could probably get into. I would recommend doing your search in the reverse order than you're currently attempting. Don't choose 2-3 A/C and just consider those. Rather open up your ideas, consider all options, go out and test fly many types, and see which you like the best while considering your needs and restraints. There have been many A/C that I never gave the time of day or thought they were a POS, but after flying them I was impressed and realized the potential of the A/C. Just don't limit yourself during this early stage.

 

[typhoonpilot]

I'd vote for the M20J as well. Not sure what the older ones are going for now, but I bet you can find one for under 100K. You can routinely get 2000 plus hours out of the Lycoming IO-360 engine. The airplane is a dream to fly. Big people complain about the interior size so that can be a consideration , but I would recommend trying one out before buying one of those other three.

Typhoonpilot

 

[Don]

What about the useful load on the mooney? A twin is out of the question. I have plenty of twin time and I have no interest in paying for two engines. Thats just too much money.

http://www.aso.com/i.aso/AircraftView.jsp?aircraft_id=80079

994 lbs. Useful Load
I'm guessing 65 gallons / 390 lbs
About 600 lbs left over? Is that normal. That might be a good fit and faster too.

What are the maintainenece bills like on a mooney?

 

[typhoonpilot]

Where do you live ?

I used to know a good Mooney maintenance place in Stockton. I think Top Gun was their name, not sure if they are still around. They could give you an idea of the costs. They are probably on the high side, but were the best quality on the west coast a few years back.

Typhoonpilot

 

[Flyin Tony]

May I say

You can not go wrong with a Comanche 250