Beech Sundowner/Sierra PIREP wanted

Saw an interesting article in Private Pilot mag about the Sierra.
Roomy & stable....sounds like my kind of plane.
Prices look decent; and the FG Sundowner even cheaper (and more
insurable for a 150-hour pilot than the RG Sierra)

Looking for something that can handle two large adults + baggage and
maybe the occasional friend or two. IFR capable, tho I don't plan on
a lot of IMC til I get more comfy with it! Something I can take out
for 100-500 mile trips, 2-3 hour legs (because of MY legs )

I have not actually seen one...and wont be available to to go to
Dayton for the big Beech flyin. So everything I know about 'em is
from research on the www.

Here is the score as far as I can see:

PLUSes:
-Roomy
-IFR stable
-Reliable
-Two doors
-Uses a common engine; can get that fixed anywhere.
-Built like a tank

MINUSes (as I hear)
-Not as fast as other a/c with similar horsies???
-Parts and STC availability not quite as good as a 172 or PA28???
-Short field performance not outstanding???
-Mediocre climb performance???
-Prone to nose gear damage???
-Not recommended for grass strips???
-Not as quiet as others???

Things I don't know
-Operating costs
-Common problems or high failure rate parts
-Corrosion problems?

Interested to hear from those who own or have flown them.
What's the real scoop?

Thanks!

--Don

Don Byrer
Electronics Technician, RADAR/Data/Comm @ CLE
Amateur Radio KJ5KB
Instrument Pilot Commercial/CFI Student
PP-ASEL 30 Jan 2005 "-IA" 25 Mar 2005
kj5kb_at_hotmail.com