Cessna 182 vs Beechcraft Bonanza 36
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 | Cessna 182 | Beechcraft Bonanza 36 |
|---|---|---|
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|
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| Price Range | $14,500 – $875,000 | $189,000 – $1,395,000 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 6 |
| Horsepower | 230 HP | 285 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 140 kts (259 km/h) | 168 kts (311 km/h) |
| Range | 915 nm (1,695 km) | 697 nm (1,291 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 18,100 ft (5,517 m) | 18,000 ft (5,486 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 3,100 lbs (1,406 kg) | 3,400 lbs (1,542 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,110 lbs (503 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 92.0 gal (348 L) | 74.0 gal (280 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 12.5 GPH (47 L/h) | 14.0 GPH (53 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 1,700 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $32,000 | $35,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $20,000 | $22,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $160 | $195 |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna 182
Beechcraft Bonanza 36
Which Should You Buy: Cessna 182 or Beechcraft Bonanza 36?
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 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 — 499 listings vs 203.
Pick the Bonanza 36 if…
- More seats — 6 vs 4.
- Faster cruise — 168 kts vs 140 kts.
- Newer design — production from 1968 vs 1956.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.