About the MOONEY M20E
The Mooney M20E is a significant model in the lineage of Mooney Aircraft Company, known for its high-performance, single-engine, piston-powered planes. Introduced in 1964, the M20E was developed as an enhanced and more powerful version of its predecessors in the M20 series. Mooney Aircraft aimed to create an airplane that would provide improved speed, efficiency, and general performance for private pilots and small business owners seeking reliable and economical transportation. With its sleek, low-wing design, retractable landing gear, and distinctive forward-swept tail, the M20E quickly became recognizable in the aviation community.
The M20E was powered by a Lycoming IO-360-A1A engine, which produced 200 horsepower. This engine provided better performance, enabling a cruise speed of around 170 knots and a range of approximately 760 nautical miles. One of the most notable features of the M20E was its efficiency; it offered a favorable balance between speed and fuel consumption, making it an attractive option for pilot-owners conscious of operating costs. The aircraft's relatively low stall speed also contributed to its reputation for being a safe and manageable aircraft for competent pilots.
Key Features and Capabilities
In addition to its performance metrics, the M20E included upgraded avionics and several refinements to the interior, aiming to enhance the overall comfort and usability for both pilots and passengers. This combination of factors made the M20E a popular choice in the general aviation market during its production run from 1964 to 1975.
The niche that the M20E served was primarily that of a faster, long-distance traveler for private owners and small businesses. Its development reflected the needs of a growing community of pilots seeking more capabilities than those offered by the basic trainer and small recreational aircraft. The M20E’s legacy lives on in its balance of performance, efficiency, and stylish design, making it a respected part of Mooney’s storied history of aircraft production.