Beechcraft Bonanza 36 vs Cessna 182
The Beechcraft Bonanza 36 and Cessna 182 Skylane are both proven cross-country singles with loyal followings. The low-wing A36 Bonanza offers six seats, a wide club cabin, retractable gear, and refined handling, while the high-wing fixed-gear 182 is a simpler, rugged hauler with great visibility. This pits premium performance against dependable utility.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Beechcraft Bonanza 36 | Cessna 182 |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $189,000 – $1,395,000 | $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 | 697 nm (1,291 km) | 915 nm (1,695 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 18,000 ft (5,486 m) | 18,100 ft (5,517 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,400 lbs (1,542 kg) | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 1,110 lbs (503 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 74.0 gal (280 L) | 92.0 gal (348 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 14.0 GPH (53 L/h) | 12.5 GPH (47 L/h) |
| TBO | 1,700 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $35,000 | $32,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $22,000 | $20,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $195 | $160 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateBeechcraft Bonanza 36
Cessna 182
Which Should You Buy: Beechcraft Bonanza 36 or Cessna 182?
Bottom line: Choose the Bonanza 36 for speed, cabin room, six seats, and that signature handling; pick the 182 for lower costs, fixed-gear simplicity, and easy ownership. Mission and budget decide it—the Bonanza rewards travelers, while the Skylane wins on value and upkeep.
Pick the Bonanza 36 if…
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 168 kts vs 140 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1968 vs 1956.
Pick the 182 if…
- Budget matters — from $14,500 vs $189,000, you save ~$174,500.
- Lower operating cost — ~$160/hr vs $195/hr.
- Longer range — 915 nm vs 697 nm.
- More inventory — 486 listings vs 198.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.