10 Fastest Single-Engine Planes: Top Speeds, Specs and Expert Reviews
In general aviation, speed epitomizes the pinnacle of engineering and performance innovation. Our comprehensive review, "10 Fastest Single-Engine Planes in 2025: Top Speeds, Specs & Expert Reviews," delves into state-of-the-art models from industry leaders like Mooney, Cirrus, Piper, and Cessna, showcasing how breakthroughs in aerodynamics, turbocharged engines, and advanced avionics are redefining single-engine performance. Whether you're a seasoned pilot seeking your next high-speed aircraft or an aviation enthusiast eager to explore the latest trends, this guide provides detailed specs, expert insights, and side-by-side comparisons to help you navigate the evolving skies.
Quick answer: The fastest single-engine piston airplane by top speed is the Mooney Acclaim Ultra at about 242 knots, though Mooney's Kerrville factory has sat idle since 2019. Among aircraft in active production today, the turbocharged Cirrus SR22T and the pressurized Piper M350 lead at roughly 213 knots each, followed by the Cessna Turbo Stationair HD. Below we rank the 10 fastest single-engine piston planes by top speed, with current specs, 2026 pricing, and production status.
For decades, pilots and aviation enthusiasts have chased speed. Today the contest plays out among modern single-engine piston aircraft that blend efficiency, advanced avionics, and genuine cross-country performance. This guide ranks the 10 fastest single-engine piston planes by top speed, with detailed specs, current pricing, and notes on which models are still being built. A quick note on prices: these aircraft are sold heavily optioned, so the figures below are approximate 2026 list or last-known prices and vary widely by configuration.
Table of Contents
1. Mooney Acclaim Ultra
The Mooney Acclaim Ultra tops the list on raw speed. Part of the legendary M20 family that traces back to 1955, the Acclaim Ultra debuted in 2016 with a turbocharged Continental TSIO-550-G producing 280 horsepower. Its tight, aerodynamically clean airframe lets it reach roughly 242 knots, making it the fastest single-engine piston design in the world.
Production status: Mooney's factory in Kerrville, Texas closed in November 2019 and new-aircraft deliveries have not resumed, so the Acclaim Ultra is currently found mainly on the used market. The company has since signaled plans to restart production, but no confirmed new-build deliveries have been announced.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 242 knots
- Climb Rate: 1,375 fpm
- Max Altitude: 25,000 feet
- Seats: 4
- Horsepower: 280
- Empty Weight: 2,319 lbs
- Price: about $769,000 last list (2019); used market today
Why it matters: No other piston single matches the Acclaim Ultra's blend of top speed and fuel efficiency. Love the M20? Put one on your desk with the Mooney M20 mahogany model (about $249).
2. Cirrus SR22T Turbo
The Cirrus SR22T Turbo builds on the best-selling SR22 with a turbocharged, 315-horsepower Continental that keeps performance strong at altitude. It cruises at about 213 knots and pairs that speed with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) and Perspective glass avionics.
Production status: In active production and now in its seventh generation, the G7, introduced in 2024. The G7+ variant, added in 2025, includes Safe Return emergency autoland as standard.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 213 knots
- Climb Rate: 1,203 fpm
- Max Altitude: 25,000 feet
- Seats: 4
- Horsepower: 315
- Empty Weight: 2,354 lbs
- Price: from about $780,000 base; roughly $1.1 million typically equipped (G7)
Expert insight: Pilots choose the SR22T for its blend of speed, altitude capability, and the safety net of a whole-airframe parachute. Fans of the airframe can display the Cirrus SR22 mahogany model (about $449).
3. Piper M350
The Piper M350 pairs high performance with a pressurized cabin, a rarity among piston singles. Its turbocharged Lycoming and refined, six-seat cabin appeal to owner-pilots flying long, high legs in comfort, and it cruises at about 213 knots.
Production status: In active production. Because the M350 is delivered fully equipped, current builds now run closer to about $1.4 million, above the roughly $1.2 million once quoted.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 213 knots
- Max Altitude: 25,000 feet
- Seats: 6
- Horsepower: 350
- Empty Weight: 3,050 lbs
- Price: about $1.4 million typically equipped
4. Mooney Ovation Ultra
The Mooney Ovation Ultra is the fastest normally aspirated single-engine piston design, cruising at about 197 knots on a 315-horsepower Continental. It offers classic Mooney efficiency without the complexity of a turbocharger.
Production status: Paused. The Ovation Ultra shares the fate of the rest of the Mooney line after the 2019 Kerrville shutdown, so it is available today on the used market pending any production restart.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 197 knots
- Climb Rate: 1,300 fpm
- Max Altitude: 20,000 feet
- Seats: 4
- Horsepower: 315
- Price: about $689,000 last list (2019); used market today
5. Cirrus SR22
The normally aspirated Cirrus SR22 remains one of the best-selling general-aviation aircraft in the world. Known for its side-stick controls, roomy cabin, and standard CAPS parachute, it cruises at about 183 knots and set the modern benchmark for a fast, safe personal single.
Production status: In active production, now built in the seventh-generation G7 configuration.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 183 knots
- Climb Rate: 1,270 fpm
- Max Altitude: 17,500 feet
- Seats: 4
- Horsepower: 310
- Price: from about $700,000 base; roughly $850,000 to $950,000 typically equipped (G7)
6. Beechcraft Bonanza G36
A stalwart of general aviation for more than 75 years, the Beechcraft Bonanza G36 pairs a top speed of about 176 knots with a spacious six-seat cabin and legendary build quality. It is a favorite of owner-pilots who value comfort and ramp presence as much as speed.
Production status: Final production run. Textron Aviation announced in November 2025 that it is ending Bonanza G36 and Baron G58 production; remaining airframes are being delivered from the existing order backlog and new order books are closed.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 176 knots
- Climb Rate: 1,230 fpm
- Max Altitude: 18,500 feet
- Seats: 6
- Horsepower: 300
- Empty Weight: 2,590 lbs
- Price: recent new list about $1.1 million
Collector's note: With the line winding down, the Bonanza is fast becoming a classic. Mark it with the Bonanza G36 mahogany model (about $449).
7. Cessna Turbo Stationair HD
Built for utility, the Cessna Turbo Stationair HD (turbocharged T206) trades outright speed for a big, rugged cabin and a generous useful load. Its cruise of about 161 knots is modest next to the speed-focused singles, but its hauling ability makes it a workhorse for backcountry, cargo, and float operations.
Production status: In active production, with current model-year aircraft delivered with the Garmin G1000 NXi flight deck.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 161 knots
- Climb Rate: 960 fpm
- Max Altitude: 26,000 feet
- Seats: 6
- Horsepower: 310
- Empty Weight: 2,365 lbs
- Price: roughly $900,000 and up, typically equipped
8. Cirrus SR20
The Cirrus SR20 is not a speed record holder at about 155 knots, but its glass avionics, comfortable cabin, and standard parachute have made it a mainstay at flight schools and a popular first personal airplane.
Production status: In active production, also built in the G7 configuration.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 155 knots
- Climb Rate: 781 fpm
- Max Altitude: 17,500 feet
- Seats: 4
- Horsepower: 215
- Empty Weight: 2,122 lbs
- Price: from about $650,000; roughly $700,000 and up typically equipped (G7)
9. Diamond DA40
The Diamond DA40 is prized for its outstanding safety record and composite construction. It cruises at about 154 knots and is offered with either a Lycoming IO-360 (DA40 XLT) or a jet-A-burning Austro AE300 diesel (DA40 NG), making it an efficient choice for training and personal flying alike.
Production status: In active production.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 154 knots
- Climb Rate: 690 fpm
- Max Altitude: 16,400 feet
- Seats: 4
- Horsepower: 180
- Empty Weight: 1,984 lbs
- Price: new around $700,000 to $750,000
10. Cessna Skylane
A timeless icon, the Cessna Skylane (the 182) has been a general-aviation staple since 1956, with more than 23,000 built. Its cruise of about 145 knots, forgiving manners, and easy maintenance have kept it a favorite for training, family flying, and cross-country travel for generations.
Production status: In active production. The turbocharged Turbo Skylane (T182T) has also returned to the Textron lineup.
Key Specs
- Top Speed: 145 knots
- Climb Rate: 924 fpm
- Max Altitude: 18,100 feet
- Seats: 4
- Horsepower: 230
- Empty Weight: 2,000 lbs
- Price: from about $600,000 (182); turbocharged T182T from about $760,000
Bring it home: The Skylane is one of the most recognizable shapes in aviation. Display the Cessna 182 Skylane mahogany model (about $249) or the Cessna Turbo Skylane clear-canopy model (about $449).
(Image source: By Sir James, CC BY 3.0)
Comparison Table: Top Specs at a Glance
| Aircraft | Top Speed (kt) | Climb Rate (fpm) | Max Altitude (ft) | Seats | Horsepower | Est. Price (2026) | Production Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mooney Acclaim Ultra | 242 | 1,375 | 25,000 | 4 | 280 | ~$769K (2019 list) | Paused |
| Cirrus SR22T Turbo | 213 | 1,203 | 25,000 | 4 | 315 | ~$1.1M (G7) | In production |
| Piper M350 | 213 | - | 25,000 | 6 | 350 | ~$1.4M | In production |
| Mooney Ovation Ultra | 197 | 1,300 | 20,000 | 4 | 315 | ~$689K (2019 list) | Paused |
| Cirrus SR22 | 183 | 1,270 | 17,500 | 4 | 310 | ~$850K (G7) | In production |
| Beechcraft Bonanza G36 | 176 | 1,230 | 18,500 | 6 | 300 | ~$1.1M | Ending (final run) |
| Cessna Turbo Stationair HD | 161 | 960 | 26,000 | 6 | 310 | ~$900K+ | In production |
| Cirrus SR20 | 155 | 781 | 17,500 | 4 | 215 | ~$700K (G7) | In production |
| Diamond DA40 | 154 | 690 | 16,400 | 4 | 180 | ~$720K | In production |
| Cessna Skylane | 145 | 924 | 18,100 | 4 | 230 | ~$650K (182) | In production |
Prices are approximate 2026 figures. New aircraft are sold heavily optioned, so real transaction prices vary widely by configuration; paused-production models reflect last published list prices and now trade on the used market.
Final Thoughts
Speed, efficiency, and safety define the modern era of single-engine piston aircraft. Whether you are a seasoned owner-pilot or an enthusiast dreaming about a first purchase, these ten planes represent the fastest the category has to offer. Just keep production status in mind: the quickest designs (the Mooney twins) are currently between production runs, while the Cirrus SR-series, Piper M350, Cessna singles, and Diamond DA40 are the fastest options you can still order new.
Love these high-performance singles? Bring one home for your desk or hangar with our airplane models and handcrafted mahogany aircraft models.
First-time aircraft owner? Read our guide on the pros and cons of renting versus owning an aircraft, or visit the official manufacturer sites linked throughout this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the fastest single-engine plane?
- By top speed, the Mooney Acclaim Ultra leads at about 242 knots, powered by a turbocharged 280-horsepower Continental TSIO-550-G. Mooney production has been paused since 2019, so it is found mainly on the used market.
- What is the fastest single-engine plane currently in production?
- Among aircraft in active production, the turbocharged Cirrus SR22T and the pressurized Piper M350 are the fastest at about 213 knots each, followed by the Cessna Turbo Stationair HD.
- What is the fastest normally aspirated single-engine piston aircraft?
- The Mooney Ovation Ultra, cruising at about 197 knots, is the fastest normally aspirated single-engine piston design, though it shares the paused production status of the rest of the Mooney line.
- How fast is the Cirrus SR22T Turbo?
- The Cirrus SR22T Turbo cruises at about 213 knots using a turbocharged 315-horsepower engine, and it comes standard with the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System. It is now built in the seventh-generation G7 configuration.
- Which single-engine plane on this list is the most affordable?
- New, the Cessna Skylane is typically the most accessible, starting around $600,000, followed by the Diamond DA40 in the low $700,000s. On the used market, the Cirrus SR20 and Diamond DA40 are among the most affordable ways into a modern single.
- Which of these planes is best for flight training?
- The Cirrus SR20, cruising at about 155 knots, is a popular flight-school and personal aircraft thanks to its glass avionics and easy handling. The Diamond DA40 is another strong option for both training and personal use.
- Are Mooney and Beechcraft Bonanza aircraft still being built?
- Mooney's Kerrville, Texas factory closed in 2019 and new production has not resumed, though the company has signaled plans to restart. Textron announced in late 2025 that it is ending Beechcraft Bonanza G36 production, with remaining aircraft delivered from the existing order backlog.
About the author
Neil Glazer is the owner of Pilot Mall and a commercial pilot rated for multi-engine and instrument flight. He writes about aircraft, avionics, and the gear that helps pilots fly more safely and enjoy every hour aloft.
15 comments
Fast airplanes not included
Porto Aviation Risen – also their new 4 seat version
The ANG One 4 seat with Rotax 916 si engine
Epic 1000
Lancair 360, Maximus, etc
Glassair 2 and Glassair 3 aircraft
You really should do more research to make your published items encompassing more upto date aircraft. There are also several aircraft under development – like the Synergy Prime 5/6 seater with its amazing ultra low drag wing and laminar flow design by John McGinis.
The Neal Brothers made a Prop back in May-June of 2022. Darn thing made a top speed run of 402 mph, then 404 mph. I never understood why them boys didn’t sell a million of them planes.
1. note: P.S. The Glass air #number 3: has cruising Speed of (272 Knots Or 312-8 =313 Miles Per hour. The Top speed is 291 knots or 334-65 =335 miles per hour too!
What about the Air Tractor?? 221 mph top speed. 1600 hp. 16,000 payload. SOCOM is buying 50 up-armored and armed units for overwatch purposes.
1. The Glasair -3 piston Engine Plane : The top speed is in knots is 261 knots or 300 miles per hour too.
All y’all whingeing about “Y U DIDN’T LIST THIS OLD AIRPLANE” missed the first paragraph of TFA: aircraft that are currently in production. Reading comprehension, guys, it’s a thing.
Left out was several very popular experimental class aircraft. Notably the Lancair IV-P with a normal cruise of 250knots and a firewalled over 270knots. Let’s not even discuss the 310knots PT-6 version.
None of these are fast single engine propeller aircraft. Anything below 217knots (250mph) aren’t fast but are just faster than average aircraft. Now how about some far closer to 260knots (300mpg) realm of speed. Like Socata TBM 900, Pilatus PC-12NGX, Beechcraft Denali, Epic E1000 and Piper Meridian.
You left out the fastest of the Bonanza’s, the old Vee-tails, 200MPH cruise at 75%
1. Cessna model 350: Top Speed is 191 knots is maxim Speed too!
You did not include the Cessna 400 237 Knots, why?
1.The Cessna 400 is the number ##2 PLANE IS A FOUR BLADE PROP THE TOP SPEED IS ABOUT 235 KNOTS AT MAXIUM SPEED TOO. IT RIGHT ABOVE Cessna 350 too.zit one level up too.
1. The Cessna 400. Is 3blade Air Plane is the 2and fastest fix Gear Air Craft top speed in knots is 235 knots too.is the number 2 Plane in line too.
1. The TTx number #3 is the Cessna 350 Piston Air Craft is third Fastest Air craft ! The Top Speed is 220 Knots at top Speed Too.
1. We are losing a lot of smaller private:smaller Air Craft too! The smaller Air Craft megs are going out of Business too.There less Air Craft Megs are smaller co ,Corp I.N.C Co"s too. going out of Business too.Do you Agree!!! Sir? Or Mam? What does public say about this ? We like to Know your option !!!