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 1978 Piper PA-32RT-300T Turbo Lance II.
For operators looking for a proven and capable high-performance single-engine aircraft, this 1978 Piper PA-32RT-300T Turbo Lance II presents a compelling opportunity. With a history of being meticulously cared for and always hangared, this aircraft is a testament to its previous owners’ dedication. It’s a classic Piper that has been thoughtfully upgraded for modern flying.
At the heart of this Turbo Lance II is the robust TIO540S1AD engine, a powerplant known for its reliability and performance. A recent check revealed impressive compressions of 80/80 on all cylinders, indicating a healthy engine with plenty of life left. With 545 hours remaining before the recommended Time Before Overhaul (TBO), the next owner can look forward to years of flying before needing to consider a major overhaul. This is a significant value and provides peace of mind for any prospective buyer.
The airframe of this Piper has been enhanced with several performance-boosting modifications. The Turbo Plus Cowling improves engine cooling and efficiency, while the Wheel Loabs and Gapseals contribute to a cleaner aerodynamic profile and increased speed. The exterior paint, a solid 8 out of 10, still shines, a direct result of being stored in a hangar and protected from the elements. This aircraft not only performs well but also has a commanding presence on the ramp.
The cockpit is equipped for serious IFR flying with a practical and effective avionics package. The Garmin GNS 430 with WAAS is the centerpiece, offering precise GPS navigation and approach capabilities. This is supplemented by a Collins NAV and a Garmin Apollo GX55, providing redundancy and additional navigational options. Communications are handled by the Garmin 430 and a Collins COM radio. A 6-cylinder CHT/EGT monitor provides the pilot with crucial engine data, ensuring it is operated within its limits.
The interior of this Turbo Lance II is both spacious and comfortable, making it ideal for long cross-country flights with family or friends. The six-seat cabin was updated in 1990 and remains in great condition, with an 8 out of 10 rating. The carpets have been replaced and are in good shape, and the dual-controls make it a versatile platform for flight instruction or for sharing the flying duties with a co-pilot.
Priced at $200,000, this 1978 Piper PA-32RT-300T Turbo Lance II offers a unique combination of performance, utility, and value. It’s a turnkey aircraft that is ready to fly and will provide its next owner with a reliable and enjoyable flying experience. For a pilot looking to step up to a turbocharged, complex aircraft without the high acquisition cost of a new plane, this Piper is a must-see.
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.
- FLYING Magazine: Air Compare: Piper Lance vs. Saratoga
- FLYING Magazine: Piper Saratoga Avionics Install: Part 1
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- Plane & Pilot: Piper Lance/Turbo Lance
- Plane & Pilot: Piper Saratoga
- The Aviation Consumer: Used Aircraft Guide: Piper Saratoga and Lance
