Cirrus SR22 vs Beechcraft Bonanza
The Cirrus SR22 and the Beechcraft Bonanza are the two benchmark high-performance singles, and the decision splits along modern-composite versus classic-metal lines. The SR22 brings a parachute, a glass panel, fixed gear, and a car-like cabin in a newer composite airframe. The Bonanza is the storied retractable-gear traveler with top-tier build quality, ramp presence, and a six-seat cabin. Both are fast; expect premium upkeep either way, which is why both are so commonly co-owned.
Key specifications, side by side
| Cirrus SR22 | Beechcraft Bonanza | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 4–5 | 4–6 |
| Engine | Continental IO-550-N | Continental IO-550-B (A36) |
| Horsepower | 310 hp | 300 hp |
| Cruise speed | ~183 kt | ~174 kt |
| Range | ~1,000 nm | ~920 nm |
| Useful load | ~1,300 lb | ~1,050 lb |
| Fuel (usable) | 92 gal | 74 gal |
| Safety | CAPS whole-airframe parachute | — |
| Landing gear | — | Retractable tricycle |
Representative figures for a popular variant of each family — exact specs vary by model year, engine, and avionics configuration.
What's different about the Cirrus SR22
- The CAPS whole-airframe parachute is the headline safety feature and a major insurance and resale talking point.
- 310 hp and ~183 kt cruise make it one of the fastest fixed-gear pistons — a serious cross-country machine.
- Side-yoke, glass panel, and a premium cabin feel closer to a modern car than a legacy GA aircraft, at a premium price.
What's different about the Beechcraft Bonanza
- Build quality and ramp presence put it at the top of the single-engine piston class — the classic "doctor's airplane."
- 300 hp, retractable gear, and ~174 kt make the A36 a fast six-seat family and business cross-country plane.
- Premium parts and the V-tail variant's history mean higher upkeep; a thorough pre-buy and type-specific training matter.
Cirrus SR22 vs Beechcraft Bonanza — frequently asked questions
Quick answers for buyers and prospective co-owners.
Cirrus SR22 or Beechcraft Bonanza — which is faster?
They are close; both cruise in the 170s–180s kt on around 300–310 hp. The SR22 (~183 kt) edges the A36 Bonanza (~174 kt) on speed, while the Bonanza counters with retractable gear, a six-seat cabin, and classic build quality.
What is the biggest difference between them?
Philosophy. The SR22 is a modern composite single with fixed gear, a glass panel, and a CAPS whole-airframe parachute; the Bonanza is the storied metal retractable-gear traveler. One emphasizes modern safety technology, the other timeless build quality and cabin room.
Are they expensive to own?
Both are premium high-performance singles with premium upkeep — healthy fuel burn plus, on the Bonanza, retractable-gear maintenance, and on the SR22, the periodic CAPS parachute repack. That cost is exactly why both are so commonly co-owned.