"Michael" wrote in message
All Arrows suck compared to either Cirrus or Bonanza. Thing is,
when I fly with people in their Arrows, I don't have to bail them out.

You're suggesting that the problem is the airplane?

No, it's more complex than that. It's a combination of airplane and
marketing. The plane isn't really any more (or less!) demanding than
one of the big-engine Bonanzas or late-model Mooneys, but generally a
private pilot with 150 hours and no instrument rating contemplating the
purchase of a late-model Mooney or Bonanza is told that it's a really
bad idea. The Cirrus markets to that segment.

I'm curious about these numbers. Do you have any cite to back them? And,
who tells these pilots that a late model Mooney or A35 is a bad idea? Beech
or Money's sales departments? Exactly where does this alleged warning come
from such that it isn't equally available to potential Cirrus customers? If
your facts are correct, who's at fault?

The engine issues are still a drag. But there's nothing comparable
in terms of performance and servicability at that price.

V35S Bonanza, new paint, new interior, factory reman engine. Glass
panel (now STC'd). TKS Weeping wings (with a better system than the
Cirrus has, now STC'd). Slightly faster on the same fuel burn. Fifth
seat for when you need it. Much nicer handling, lands slower, better
rough field airplane. All for less than half the price of an
equivalently equipped Cirrus.

And maintenance costs? Anyway, I should have been more clear. I was
referring to the cost of the engine only. Not really any current options.
Annoying.

moo