Cessna 182T Skylane vs Mooney M20J 201
Head-to-head — specs, at a glance.
iCessna 182T Skylane
The 2001-present Cessna 182T is the **current production 182** and the first Skylane with a glass cockpit (Garmin G1000) from the factory. The 182T inherited the 182S's airframe, Lycoming IO-540 engine, 3,100 lb gross, and 88+ gallon fuel system, then upgraded the panel to G1000 (and later G1000 NXi starting around 2014), added GFC 700 autopilot integration, and refined production quality. Approximately 1,200+ examples have been delivered through 2026, and production continues at modest volumes (40-80 units per year).
- +Current production 182 with factory G1000/G1000 NXi glass cockpit
- +GFC 700 autopilot integrated; modern avionics capability without retrofit
- +Proven IO-540 engine, well-supported with 2,000 hr TBO
- !G1000 database and software updates require ongoing subscription and maintenance
- !GFC 700 autopilot repairs are specialized and costly
- !IO-540 cylinders can develop compression issues at mid-time; expensive overhaul ($32K–$42K)
Mooney M20J 201
The Mooney M20J 201 is one of the most significant aircraft in general aviation history. Introduced in 1977, it was the first production aircraft to cruise at 201 mph (175 KTAS) on a 200HP engine — hence the name "201." This achievement represented the pinnacle of aerodynamic efficiency: 168 KTAS cruise on only 10.5 GPH, a specific speed-per-horsepower that remains essentially unmatched by any other certified piston single.
- +168 KTAS cruise on only 10.5 GPH — unmatched efficiency for speed
- +Best cross-country value under $200K with 881 nm range
- +Responsive, rewarding handling that rewards precise flying technique
- !Johnson bar manual gear requires precise rigging; not intuitive for rusty pilots
- !One-piece windshield replacement is expensive ($3,000–$5,000)
- !Four-seat cabin with tight rear seats; not suitable for large groups
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