This 1962 Mooney M20C Mark 21 Ranger Is a Refreshingly Classic ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

Economical four-seat single boasts fresh exterior and new leather interior.

FLYING Staff

Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 11:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

1962 Mooney M20C Mark 21 Ranger [Credit: Hiller Aviation]

Key Takeaways:

The article features a 1962 Mooney M20C Mark 21 Ranger as "Today's Top Pick," highlighting its reputation for aerodynamic efficiency and near-150-knot cruise capability.
Despite a past prop strike and nose-gear collapse in 2023, the aircraft has undergone complete repairs, including a recent engine teardown/crankshaft replacement and propeller overhaul, both with only 16 hours since completion.
Priced at $74,900, this Mooney boasts a complete cosmetic restoration (new paint, new leather interior) and modern ADS-B Out compliance, offering an efficient and visually appealing package.

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Every day, the team at Aircraft For Sale chooses an airplane that catches our attention because it is unique, a good deal, or has other qualities we find interesting. You can read Aircraft For Sale: Today’s Top Pick at FLYINGMag.com daily.

Today’s Top Pick is a 1962 Mooney M20C Mark 21 Ranger.

Few designs in general aviation history squeeze as much performance out of 180 hp as Al Mooney’s legendary M20 line. Known affectionately as the Ranger, the M20C established Mooney’s long-standing reputation for aerodynamic efficiency, giving pilots near-150-knot cruise capability on modest fuel burns.

This classic airframe shows roughly 4,385 total hours on the timer since original factory delivery. It comes with a fresh annual inspection completed in October 2025, keeping it airworthy through October 2026. While logbooks note a 2023 prop strike and nose-gear collapse, the airframe was fully repaired, and all records are available for review.

Generating muscle under the cowls is a reliable 180 hp Lycoming O-360-A1A engine showing approximately 375 hours since its 2004 overhaul. Following the 2023 prop strike incident, the engine underwent a full teardown inspection in 2024 in accordance with Lycoming SB 533C, which included a new crankshaft. The engine has logged just ~16 hours since that work, backed by strong cylinder compressions of 78/78/79/78.

Up front, it turns a two-bladed Hartzell constant-speed propeller zero-timed in May 2024, also showing only 16 hours since overhaul.

Stepping onto the panel reveals a traditional VFR flight deck that stays true to its vintage roots. Navigation and radio duties are handled by a classic King KX170B nav/comm, while a uAvionix tailBeacon brings the aircraft into modern ADS-B Out compliance for hassle-free operation in controlled airspace.

1962 Mooney M20C Mark 21 Ranger [Credit: Hiller Aviation]

Where this Ranger truly turns heads is in its striking cosmetic restoration. The exterior boasts a complete strip and repaint from August 2025, while the cabin invites pilots and passengers inside with a brand-new, plush leather interior.

For aviators seeking retractable speed, and minimal engine hours since on a sensible budget, this classic Mooney presents a compelling package.

Listed at $74,900, this 1962 Mooney M20C Mark 21 Ranger delivers exceptional efficiency and eye-catching ramp presence.

If you’re exploring ownership options, FLYING Finance can help get you airborne. Use our airplane loan calculator to estimate your monthly payments, or connect with an aviation finance expert at flyingfinance.com.