From short-field capability to payload to cruising speed, every aircraft is a balance of strengths and compromises. Among single-engine piston types, few manufacturers have optimized speed and efficiency as effectively as Mooney. Indeed, when designing the first examples, Al Mooney set a target of achieving 1 mile per hour per horsepower – and achieved that. At $68,000, today’s bargain brings this performance closer an entry-level price point.
First flown in 1953, the M-20 began as a small, 150-horsepower airplane with a cramped back seat and few creature comforts. The M-20 series culminated with the “long-body” 280-horsepower M-20V Acclaim Ultra, certified in 2017. But many consider the “medium-body” M-20F, G, J, and K versions to offer the best balance of space, performance, and economy.
With the tried-and-true, 200-horsepower Lycoming IO-360, this M-20 has more power than the earlier medium-body Mooneys, boosting takeoff, climb, and cruise performance. But this example has been modified with a Powerflow tuned exhaust, a modernized windshield, flap-gap seals, and slicker wing-root fairings for even better performance.
The exterior shows well, with 7/10 paint in subtle colors and a simple scheme that accentuates the forward-swept lines of the unique Mooney tail. The interior was renovated just two years ago, and sports attractive two-tone seats and colors that complement the exterior. Together, the interior and exterior create a look that’s far more modern than many other 56-year-old airplanes.
The panel is simple and straightforward, with basic gauges, King radios, and a Garmin GPS/COM. Engine gauges are neatly grouped together, with a modern fuel-flow computer that’s linked to the GPS to provide confidence with fuel management. ADS-B in and out functionality ensures you’ll be able to access any airspace while monitoring ADS-B compliant traffic around you.
With 6,225 hours total time and 1,940 since major overhaul, this Mooney has been flown a fair amount, but complete logs and no damage history indicate it has also been properly cared for. For a fast, efficient cross-country machine under $100,000, this Mooney could be just the ticket.
You can arrange financing of the aircraft through FLYING Finance and quickly calculate your monthly payment using the airplane finance calculator. For more information, email info@flyingfinance.com.