The Cirrus SR22 and the Beechcraft Bonanza G36 are the two benchmark high-performance piston singles — one a modern composite airplane with a whole-airframe parachute, the other a retractable-gear classic prized for build quality and a six-seat cabin. Both finance on similar terms, so the choice comes down to mission and preference.
Quick verdict
Choose the SR22 for modern avionics, the CAPS parachute, and fixed-gear simplicity; choose the Bonanza G36 for a true six-seat club cabin, retractable-gear speed efficiency, and legendary build quality. Financing is comparable for both — 15–20% down and terms up to 20 years for well-qualified buyers.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Factor | Cirrus SR22 | Beechcraft Bonanza G36 |
|---|---|---|
| Class | High-performance composite single | High-performance metal single |
| Landing gear | Fixed | Retractable |
| Engine | Continental IO-550 (~310 hp) | Continental IO-550 (~300 hp) |
| Typical cruise | ~180 knots | ~176 knots |
| Seats | 4–5 | 6 (club cabin available) |
| Signature feature | CAPS whole-airframe parachute | Build quality, cabin-class comfort |
| Typical used price (2026) | ~$180,000–$900,000 | ~$200,000–$950,000 |
| Financing profile | 15–20% down, up to 20 yr | 15–20% down, up to 20 yr |
Performance & Mission
Both cruise in the mid-to-high 170s to 180 knots and carry a real cross-country load. The SR22's fixed gear trades a little speed efficiency for simplicity and lower gear-maintenance cost, while the Bonanza's retractable gear and six-seat club cabin make it the better people-hauler for larger families or business travel. The SR22's CAPS parachute is a genuine safety differentiator that many buyers value; the Bonanza answers with decades of proven structure and handling.
Cost & Financing
Operating costs are similar — both burn the same family of Continental IO-550 engine at roughly 15–17 gph. The SR22 adds the scheduled CAPS repack to its budget; the Bonanza adds retractable-gear inspections. On financing, the two are close to identical: well-qualified buyers see 15–20% down and terms up to 20 years. Insurance on the SR22 is sensitive to Cirrus transition training and time-in-type; the Bonanza's premium reflects retractable-gear complexity. See each model's page for detail.
Specifications, prices, and financing figures are illustrative for the 2026 market and are not offers of credit. Jaken Aviation is a licensed aircraft financing brokerage — a division of Jaken Finance Group — and does not make loan decisions. All financing is subject to lender approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SR22 or Bonanza cheaper to finance?
They're very close — both are high-performance singles that finance with 15-20% down and terms up to 20 years for well-qualified buyers. Purchase price, condition, and your credit matter more than the model choice.
Which is safer, the SR22 or the Bonanza?
Both have strong safety records. The SR22's CAPS whole-airframe parachute is a distinctive safety feature; the Bonanza relies on proven structure and handling. Training and proficiency matter most on either.
Which holds its value better?
Both hold value well. Late-model SR22s and G36s command strong prices; the SR22's larger production run means a deeper used market, while the Bonanza's reputation supports steady resale.
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