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).
- +Factory-integrated Garmin G1000/G1000 NXi glass cockpit with modern avionics
- +GFC 700 autopilot (post-2001) with simplified integration compared to retrofit alternatives
- +Still in active production with strong factory support and parts availability
- !G1000 database currency and software updates require active maintenance and subscription costs
- !GFC 700 autopilot repairs require specialized technicians; not all shops are equipped
- !IO-540 mid-time cylinder compression issues can develop; requires careful pre-buy inspection
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 on only 10.5 GPH — best-in-class efficiency for 200 HP
- +881 nm range at economy cruise; genuine cross-country performer
- +Near-Bonanza speed at Cherokee operating costs
- !Small four-seat cabin; rear seats cramped for large adults
- !Johnson bar manual landing gear requires proper rigging discipline
- !Mooney parts availability concerns due to past bankruptcy; reliant on LASAR
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