Mooney M20C Ranger
Mooney · United States · first flew 1961 · light aircraft
The Mooney M20C Ranger is a four-seat, low-wing retractable monoplane celebrated for its fuel efficiency and unusually high cruise speed relative to its engine power.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Low-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.06 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- distinctive forward-swept vertical tail
- low-drag wooden spar wing
- four-seat touring single with retractable gear
Identified by the characteristic forward-swept tail fin unique to all Mooney designs, combined with a short, stubby fuselage and a low-wing layout with retractable tricycle gear.
Specifications
- The Mooney M20C Ranger has a length of 7.06 m (23 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.67 m (35 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 283 km/h (176 mph).
- Typical crew: 1–2.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The M20C introduced the 180 hp Lycoming O-360 engine to the M20 line and entered production in 1961, continuing until 1977 with incremental refinements. Mooney's aerodynamically clean design gave the Ranger a competitive edge over rivals with similar powerplants.
Variants
The M20C is one of several Ranger-badged models in the M20 family; the M20E Super 21 and M20F Executive offered more power and a longer fuselage respectively.
Where you'll see it
Widely used by private pilots and flight schools across North America and Europe, the M20C remains one of the most common affordable retractable-gear singles in the used market.
Related aircraft
AircraftIQ — the aircraft field guide: 5,024 recognition guides, live overhead identification, works offline.