Mooney M20F vs Mooney M20J
The Mooney M20F Executive (1967-1977) and the M20J 201 (1977-1998) are predecessor and successor models — both four-seat retractable singles powered by the Lycoming IO-360, but the 201's streamlined cowl and aerodynamic refinements deliver true 201 mph performance from the same engine.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Mooney M20F | Mooney M20J |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $29,000 – $157,500 | $59,394 – $266,441 |
| Category | Single Engine Piston | Single Engine Piston |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 4 | 4 |
| Horsepower | — | 200 HP |
| Cruise Speed | — | 161 kts (298 km/h) |
| Range | — | 820 nm (1,519 km) |
| Service Ceiling | — | 18,800 ft (5,730 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 12,500 lbs (5,670 kg) | 2,740 lbs (1,243 kg) |
| Useful Load | — | 900 lbs (408 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | — | 64.0 gal (242 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) | 10.0 GPH (38 L/h) |
| TBO | 2,000 hrs | 2,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $30,000 | $30,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $18,000 | $18,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $140 | $140 |
| Engines | 1 x Reciprocating | 1 x Piston |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateMooney M20F
Fuel$55/hr
Variable$140/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$46,000/yr
Mooney M20J
Fuel$55/hr
Variable$140/hr
Annual Fixed$18,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$46,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Mooney M20F or Mooney M20J?
Bottom line: Choose the M20J for the more efficient airframe, higher cruise speed, modern look and the larger 201 support fleet. Choose the M20F only for materially lower acquisition cost, accepting the slower cruise and 1970s avionics that will need updating.
Pick the M20F if…
- Budget matters — from $29,000 vs $59,394, you save ~$30,394.
Pick the M20J if…
- Newer design — production from 1977 vs 1965.
- More inventory — 54 listings vs 24.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Mooney M20F or Mooney M20J?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The M20J cruises at 161 kts with 820 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Mooney M20F: from $95,000.
Mooney M20J: from $165,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Mooney M20F and Mooney M20J?
M20F engine: Lycoming O-360-A1D.
M20J engine: Lycoming O-320 (200 hp).
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
M20F: about $140/hr variable cost.
M20J: about $140/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?
M20F: 4 seats.
M20J: 4 seats / 900 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?
M20F: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$30,000.
M20J: 2,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$30,000.
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