This 1965 Beechcraft S35 Bonanza Is a Turbo-Normalized ‘AircraftForSale’ Top Pick

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 1965 Beechcraft S35 Bonanza.

The Beechcraft Bonanza is one of aviation’s most enduring icons. Introduced in 1947, the model 35 shattered expectations with its all-metal construction, retractable gear, and signature V-tail design.

This distinctive tail wasn’t just aesthetic. It reduced drag and weight, allowing the Bonanza to outrun nearly everything in its class while sipping fuel. Over a production run that spanned nearly four decades, the V-tail evolved from a light, efficient cruiser into a robust, high-performance machine, maintaining its status as the gold standard for owner-flown aircraft.

This specific 1965 model takes that legendary S35 platform and elevates it with serious performance upgrades. Most notably, the original engine has been replaced with a Continental IO-550 turbo-normalized powerplant. With 860 hours since major overhaul, this system allows the aircraft to maintain full manifold pressure up to flight levels, delivering airspeeds at altitudes normally aspirated models can’t touch.

The aircraft is rigged for long legs, featuring Osborne 20-gallon tip tanks that significantly increase fuel capacity and range. Coupled with the efficient turbo-normalized engine, this Bonanza is a true cross-country machine capable of skipping fuel stops that would ground lesser aircraft.

The exterior is finished in a beige scheme with orange-and-maroon striping—a classic look —while the interior features a brown leather-and-cloth combination rated at 7/10.

Inside, the panel is well equipped for IFR operations. It features dual Garmin GNS 430W WAAS navigators, Garmin G5 electronic HSI for modern situational awareness, and WX-1000 Stormscope for dodging convective weather. A Century 2000 autopilot handles the workload, and a JPI EDM-700 engine monitor keeps a close watch on the high-performance engine.

Listed at $149,000, this S35 represents a fantastic value proposition for a pilot looking for 180-knot-plus cruise speeds and high-altitude capability. The sale even includes Bonanza school, ensuring the new owner is safe and proficient in this high-performance complex aircraft.

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: Beechcraft A36 Bonanza vs. Bonanza V-Tails
• FLYING Magazine: Used Airplane Report: Bonanza vs. Baron
• FLYING Magazine: Pilot Proficiency: Fear of Flying
• Plane & Pilot: Beechcraft V-35 V-Tail Bonanza
• Plane & Pilot: Plane Facts: Beech Bonanzas
• Plane & Pilot: The Ultimate V-Tail
• The Aviation Consumer: Used Aircraft Guide: Model 35 Bonanza