I'm kinda intrigued by a new model Maule is introducing. The M4 is back, round tail & all! This is the M4-180V, a Lycoming-powered two seater. Their website (mauleairinc.com) indicates a price of $96K for one with a fixed-pitch prop, and about 10K more for a constant speed. Too rich for my blood , but I like the idea & look of it. Seems like maybe they're trying to compete with Husky & Cubcrafters. With both of those up at about 150K, Maule has a pretty good shot at selling some airplanes. I would think that maybe the Maule will give up a little in STOL to the others, but have an edge in cruise speed- but maybe not.
A friend of mine commented that he'd rather spend "a little more" to just get the 4 place Maule. A comparable (180 horse) new 4 place Maule lists for about 20 or 25K more. So I think the 180 horse 2 seater has a comfortable niche in the marketplace.

Eric

Article on the new M4 in this month's AOPA Pilot... looks like a nice aircraft. I really like the old school tail...and I really like Maule panels.

Z

Good point, unfortunately some will try. I prefer to think of this as natural selection but we will all wind up paying.
I stumbled on the comment made in another post and re-read it. I was amazed at the numbers for the Husky! Poor bastards! I'd hate to have to be trying to sell one of those things right now. Too bad, great plane. But then, look at the new ad campaign they have.