CMartin

Thank everyone for your thoughts and opinions. Going off everything I learned I truly think a Mooney will be at the top of my list! The payload is in the range of what I will need if not a little better, the speed is awesome, the annuals seem to be lower than expected compared to other complex and the fuel burn is very reasonable! Thanks Again!

I appreciate the run down, the a Mooney is sounding better and better as I go. It seems to be fast, has a doable fuel burn and will carry the load I need. Thanks!!

"The Mooney systems are cheaper to own on average as compared to other retractable aircraft (182, 210, bonanza) because the gear systems are simpler." This is good to know! I started reviewing this site's chronological list by year and the J model seems to be their go to model. In your opinion (anyone's) what is the prime year to look at in the J's? And what is the difference between the 201 and 205? http://www.mooneyevents.com/chrono.htm Thanks again guys!

Most of my time is in 172/182, have some time in a Bonanza as well. More worried about the comfort up front between the pilot/co-pilot seats.

I started doing some reading on the eagle and a lot of the comparison was to the J model. Sounds like the J is a good start, fast and has a decent fuel burn. Believe me, I understand there are so many variables in maintenance, etc.. but what have you guys experienced with average annuals? 3-4k?

Okay, I choose the Bravo to look at as a base since it seems to be in the upper limit of my initial budget 150K. I SURE dont need to spend the upper limit if possible. Most of my flying will be with three, but I sure dont want to be limited or overloaded, Im 6'2" 230lbs. As most of my trips will be in the 300nm range most of the time it would be nice to get over to Denver or the Gulf as well. I am based in south west Kansas. Looking at your replies, they may be lots of options. It does however seem to be a tough task since there are so many Mooney models!! Where would you guys recommend me start looking in terms of models for a plane with a decent speed, load, fuel efficiency, etc..? Based on 300-500nm trips, 100 hours a year, three adults and lower maintenance? Like I said, its a little overwhelming when there are so many models!! Thanks for taking the time and sharing, it truly is helpful!

First off, hello! I've been looking into purchasing an aircraft for a while and just cant seem to decide which make and model, so many options!! I have gone from looking at Piper Dakota's to keep operating cost's down but keeping the power I need, to A36's for the speed and load capabilities. I've have always loved the look of the Mooney's, the panel layout and the speed. But it seems to lack the comfort or hauling capabilities from what I have seen/heard, correct me if I've been lead astray please. From what I've read, overhauls and maintenance is very expensive on the Moony's (65K OH? ouch). The make and model I would like to look at is a 90's model, perhaps a Bravo? Can you guys give me an overall insight of the Moony aircraft in general? I will use this plane mostly to visit kids/family in an overall range of 150-300nm. The occasional 500nm vacation etc.. Any opinions/experiences with owning would be very helpful! Thanks!