Beechcraft Bonanza 33 vs Cessna 182
The Beechcraft Bonanza 33 and Cessna 182 Skylane are both four-to-six-seat cross-country singles, but with different characters. The low-wing, straight-tail Bonanza 33 is prized for sweet handling, speed, and craftsmanship, while the high-wing 182 is a stable, simple, durable hauler. This is premium handling against rugged simplicity.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Beechcraft Bonanza 33 | Cessna 182 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $75,000 – $565,000 | $14,500 – $875,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 6 | 4 |
| Horsepower | 285 HP | 230 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 168 kts (311 km/h) | 140 kts (259 km/h) |
| Range | 920 nm (1,704 km) | 915 nm (1,695 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 17,858 ft (5,443 m) | 18,100 ft (5,517 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,400 lbs (1,542 kg) | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,134 lbs (514 kg) | 1,110 lbs (503 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 74.0 gal (280 L) | 92.0 gal (348 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 14.5 GPH (55 L/h) | 12.5 GPH (47 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $32,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $20,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $160 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBeechcraft Bonanza 33
Fuel$80/hr
Cessna 182
Fuel$69/hr
Variable$160/hr
Annual Fixed$20,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$52,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Beechcraft Bonanza 33 or Cessna 182?
Bottom line: Choose the Bonanza 33 for refined handling, faster cruise, and a premium feel; pick the 182 for fixed-gear simplicity, lower operating costs, and a huge support network. A thorough pre-buy, avionics, and condition typically decide it.
Pick the Bonanza 33 if…
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 168 kts vs 140 kts.
- Longer range — 920 nm vs 915 nm.
- Newer design — production from 1960 vs 1956.
Pick the 182 if…
- Budget matters — from $14,500 vs $75,000, you save ~$60,500.
- More inventory — 497 listings vs 80.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Beechcraft Bonanza 33 or Cessna 182?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Bonanza 33 cruises at 168 kts with 920 nm range.
The 182 cruises at 140 kts with 915 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Beechcraft Bonanza 33: from $318,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Beechcraft Bonanza 33 and Cessna 182?
182 engine: Continental O-470-L (230 hp).
Seats: 6 vs 4.
Cruise: 168 vs 140 kts.
Range: 920 vs 915 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
182: about $160/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Bonanza 33: 6 seats / 1,134 lb useful load.
182: 4 seats / 1,110 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
182: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$32,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data