Opinion - Best 4 place Airplane

[NickC]

Well, I think I may be ready to get rid of my 140 and go faster, farther, heavier, etc. Personally, I can read all of the articles, reviews, opinions, etc until my eyes are crossed and I can't decide which plane I should pursue. In my mind, a Cherokee 6 would be the ultimate hauler, but it is a little slow. A Mooney is very fast and fuel efficient, but not much bigger than my 140. An Archer is a little better in all categories than my 140 but is it good enough to warrant a new purchase? Dakota vs Arrow? What about composite? Should I get a 6 seater to assure I can haul 4 plus bags? These are the things I am struggling with answering.

Most of the flying will be my wife and I, but I need to be able to carry 4 adults - my parents, my sister too and from college, friends for weekend trips, etc. Please give me your opinion based on my mission….

1. Speed - 135+knts
2. Range - 500nm minimum before refuel
3. 4 people (650 lbs) plus a little baggage
4. Runway length is not a problem - my home is 5500' and I never visit grass
5. Fuel - I know there is a trade-off would I rather go 130knts and burn 11-13 or 150knts+ and burn 13-18…I cannot answer that question right now, maybe y'all can help.
6. Price - ???

Price is the big one - I could spend up to $150k but if I could get a good plane for around $70K I could keep the 140….

Again, just wanting your opinions. Thanks!

 

[drotto25]

 

[msires]

 

[ikaros61]

 

[Orest @ CYFD]

 

[Jeff K]

 

[NickC]

 

[LBlandina]

 

[Tom]

 

[NickC]