Piper Comanche vs Mooney M20

The Piper Comanche and Mooney M20 are efficient retractable singles — the Comanche has a roomier cabin and softer ride; the Mooney is the speed-per-horsepower efficiency leader with a tighter cabin.

Live Market Snapshot

Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily

Piper Comanche
For sale now
57
Median asking
$115,000
Range
$71,900–$174,495
Listed on 2+ marketplaces
18
Source marketplaces
8
Model years available
1958–1992
Mooney M20

No active listings right now.

Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.

Safety Record

Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.

NTSB (1982–now)Piper ComancheMooney M20
All events1232
Serious137
Fatal353
Fatalities633
% Fatal29%

Full Specs Comparison

Swipe to see all specs
Spec / Model Piper Comanche Mooney M20
Piper Comanche
View 59 listings →
Median $115,000
Price Range $71,900 – $174,495
Category Single Engine Piston
Model Specifications
Cruise Speed 157 kts (291 km/h)
Range 956 nm (1,771 km)
Max Gross Weight 2,900 lbs (1,315 kg)

Which Should You Buy: Piper Comanche or Mooney M20?

Bottom line: Choose the Mooney M20 for the best speed and fuel efficiency in the class. Choose the Comanche for a roomier, more comfortable cabin and easier entry, at similar cruise speeds — when comfort matters more than outright efficiency.

Pick the Comanche if…

Pick the M20 if…

Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better, Piper Comanche or Mooney M20?
It depends on your mission and budget. The Comanche cruises at 157 kts with 956 nm range. Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Piper Comanche: from $149,000. Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Piper Comanche and Mooney M20?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data