Hi all,
I'm a Cessna 170B owner (I can already hear the gasps and dismay), but I'm looking to make change to a Mooney to better suit my mission.
I adore my 170 because she's beautiful, and has great STOL capabilities, but I use it almost exclusively for commuting and not for backcountry applications. At 110mph IAS, it's too slow for the long commutes. Additionally, I live on Vancouver Island in Canada, and do 90% of my flying over water. I'd like something if my engine dies it's not going to go ass over tea kettle into the drink like my 170 with big tires.
I've done some research, but know little about Mooneys. Maybe you can help me—
I do a lot a flying with mountain bikes in the back, so storage is my #1 priority. I've heard M20F's are the long body Mooneys? Are there any other long body Mooneys with a different model designation?
I'm in Canada, but my budget is under $100K CAD (~$87 USD), and I want something with decent paint, interior, VFR, and low/mid time engine. My price range allows for a retro Mooney. Appreciate any advice on this.