Bonanza G36 vs SR20
The Bonanza G36 leads, topping 5 of 7 compared metrics.
Cross-shopping the Beechcraft / Textron Aviation Bonanza G36 (introduced 2005) against the Cirrus Aircraft SR20 (introduced 1999) is a common decision, and the two sit closer on paper than the badges suggest. Both are piston singles, which makes them natural cross-shopping rivals. The clearest separation between them is cabin capacity, where the Bonanza G36 carries more passengers. undefined
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Bonanza G36 vs SR20: the key differences
- The SR20 delivers 9% more range (Bonanza G36: 920 nm; SR20: 1,000 nm).
- The Bonanza G36 delivers 14% more cruise speed (Bonanza G36: 176 kt; SR20: 155 kt).
- The Bonanza G36 delivers 50% more passenger capacity (Bonanza G36: 6 seats; SR20: 4 seats).
- The Bonanza G36 is the newer design (introduced 2005 versus 1999 for the SR20), a gap of 6 years that usually shows up in avionics, cabin systems and fuel burn.
- The Bonanza G36 is the larger aircraft by maximum takeoff weight (3,650 lbs versus 3,150 lbs), which typically buys more cabin and payload at the cost of higher trip economics.
Which mission suits which aircraft
The SR20 is the stronger fit for regional and short-to-medium legs — its 1,000 nm of range removes fuel stops on those legs. The Bonanza G36, at 920 nm, is better matched to short-haul and regional hops, where lower trip cost counts for more than outright reach. If most of your flying sits inside the Bonanza G36's range, the SR20's extra capability is range you pay to carry but rarely use.
Which should you choose?
Choose the SR20 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the Bonanza G36 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Bonanza G36 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
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Bonanza G36 vs SR20: FAQs
Which has the longer range, the Bonanza G36 or the SR20?
The SR20 has the longer published range — 1,000 nm versus 920 nm for the Bonanza G36.
Does the Bonanza G36 or SR20 seat more passengers?
The Bonanza G36 carries more passengers at maximum configuration — up to 6 seats, compared with 4 on the SR20.
Which is faster, the Bonanza G36 or the SR20?
The Bonanza G36 cruises faster, at 176 kt versus 155 kt for the SR20.
Which is newer, the Bonanza G36 or the SR20?
The Bonanza G36 is the newer design, introduced in 2005 versus 1999 for the SR20.
Is the Bonanza G36 or the SR20 the larger aircraft?
By maximum takeoff weight the Bonanza G36 is the larger aircraft — 3,650 lbs versus 3,150 lbs for the SR20.
Should I buy the Bonanza G36 or the SR20?
Choose the SR20 when nonstop range is the deciding factor, and the Bonanza G36 when cabin capacity and payload matter more; the Bonanza G36 holds the cruise-speed edge. The right answer ultimately depends on acquisition cost, maintenance-program status, and what is actually available on the market — talk to our acquisition advisory team to pressure-test the choice against your missions and budget.
Still weighing up the Bonanza G36 vs SR20?
Specs only take you so far. Our advisors give an independent recommendation based on your mission, budget and how you actually fly — and represent your side through to purchase.