Cirrus SR22 vs Beechcraft Bonanza

The Beechcraft Bonanza and Cirrus SR22 are arguably the two most cross-shopped high-performance singles among serious owners. The Bonanza offers timeless build quality, refined handling, and a roomy cabin, while the SR22 brings the CAPS parachute, modern glass avionics, and the strongest new-aircraft sales record. Buyers weigh heritage and feel against modern technology and safety.

Full Specs Comparison

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Spec / Model Cirrus SR22 Beechcraft Bonanza
Cirrus SR22
View 286 listings →
Median $379,000
Price Range $99,000 – $1,475,000
Category Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Seats 5
Horsepower 310 HP
Cruise Speed 183 kts (339 km/h)
Range 1,049 nm (1,943 km)
Service Ceiling 17,500 ft (5,334 m)
Max Gross Weight 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg)
Useful Load 1,183 lbs (537 kg)
Fuel Capacity 92.0 gal (348 L)
Fuel Burn 13.5 GPH (51 L/h)
TBO 2,000 hrs
Overhaul Cost $36,000
Annual Fixed $25,000
Hourly Variable $180
Engines 1 x Piston

Cost of Ownership

Estimate

Cirrus SR22

Fuel$74/hr
Variable$180/hr
Annual Fixed$25,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr) $61,000/yr

Beechcraft Bonanza

Which Should You Buy: Cirrus SR22 or Beechcraft Bonanza?

Bottom line: Choose the Bonanza for superb handling, build quality, six-seat options, and strong resale on a proven airframe. Pick the SR22 for the airframe parachute, current avionics, and a modern ownership experience; the choice often reflects whether a buyer values traditional craftsmanship or contemporary safety technology.

Pick the SR22 if…

Pick the Bonanza if…

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Cirrus SR22 or Beechcraft Bonanza?
It depends on your mission and budget. The SR22 cruises at 183 kts with 1,049 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cirrus SR22: from $769,900. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cirrus SR22 and Beechcraft Bonanza?
SR22 engine: Continental IO-550-N (310 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
SR22: about $180/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?
SR22: 5 seats / 1,183 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?
SR22: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$36,000. 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