There’s a reason why Mooney’s entry-level speedster has such a loyal following. And you don’t have to be a loyalist to appreciate the 201/M20J’s high points. It has a familiar Lycoming IO-360 engine mated to a sleek airframe that has timeless good looks and ramp appeal Plus, you buy a Mooney for speed, and for the 201, the bottom line is 155 knots on roughly 10 GPH. As a bonus you’re treated to sports car-like handling that makes it a good IFR traveler, even if you don’t fill all four seats.
The M20J had a long production run in the company’s rocky history, and the last 201 came off the line in 1999 as the Allegro. But there are plenty of 201s to choose from on the used market in various conditions. Make no mistake—you’ll want to choose one carefully. Neglected ones can be a nightmare when they hit the maintenance floor. As for support, we’ll set the record straight and say up front that despite the company’s recent shutdowns, getting parts and general factory support seems to be a non-issue.