Cal Vanize wrote in
:


As I continue to research, the Zodiac XL and the Sonex are on the
short list. Both offer a couple of engine options including Rotax 912
(variations) and the Jabiru 3300. Real-world performance doesn't seem
like it would be that much different, at least on paper.

I hope this isn't a religious issue. I'm interested in opinions on
both the Rotax and Jabiru options.

TIA.



Sonex does not offer support or FWF for the Rotex,... Just the Jabiru
(120 or 80hp) or Sonex' own "AeroVee" 80HP Volkswagan-based engine.
There are also several flying with GP VW conversions, and a couple with
a corvair (over the recomended FWF wieght though)

Both the Sonex and Zodiac are terrific planes with simular construction
methods. The Sonex is smaller both outside and in the cockpit, but
faster. The Sonex is at LEAST as fast as the factory claims (cruise
about 140-150 on 80hp, and 150-165 w/ jab 3300 (mph) yes they both meet
LSA limits since "max continuous power @ sea level is still under 138))
the Zodiac has never lived up to the factory speed claims (just ask or
read history on the Matronics list for confirmation). That doesn't make
the 601xl a bad plane, far from it... Just something else to throw into
the mix while considering.

If you havent already, join the yahoo SonexTalk list (
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/sonextalk/ ) and the Zodiac list on
Matronics (http://www.matronics.com/Navigator/?Zenith-List).

I chose the Sonex, mostly because of speed and the fact that I am
building from scratch, and the full size planse from Sonex are much more
detailed & sutable for scratch building. If I was building from a kit,
I might still be scratching my head....






--
-- ET :-)

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