The Murphy Builders Site

Since my construction has come to a standstill on my Rebel, I am looking at purchasing a flying airplane and would prefer a Rebel but I looked at an Elite recently that is nicely built. It has an O-320 and I am wondering how the flight characteristics compare to a comparable Rebel. This Elite is IFR and does seem a bit on the heavy side being 1100 pounds. Seller states 600' take off and cruise of 108 kts @ 75% with 7.5 gph fuel burn. Take off run seems longer than I expected from a Murphy, but the owner is a retired Navy/Airline pilot so I expect he knows how to fly on the edge.

I already have a 172 that has very similar performance but maybe a little longer T/O and a couple knots slower. Seems like I really wouldn't gain much other than less internal room. The other main advantage is the fact of it being AB allows me to do my own work legally except would still need and A&P for condition inspection?

Full disclosure, I have been occasionally emailing a fellow Rebel builder about his Rebel and the possibility of him selling it. I prefer not to push him into selling it if he isn't ready. It is a very nice Rebel and I would be proud to own it if the price is what I can afford (if it gets offered for sale).

Would the Elite be a good change, or should I wait for a good Rebel? Just keep my trusty ol' 172 and fly it until I can get back to work on the Rebel kit?

Anyone out here in Murphy land that has flown both models that can give me an unbiased comment on the virtues of a Rebel vs. Elite?

Thank you,
Keith

Send me a PM Keith with contact info.

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Hi Keith,

No advice, but a question. I am under the impression that the Cessna has 39" shoulder width, and the Elite has 44" shoulder width. Is this correct? How do the Elite and the 172's head and legroom compare? I'm a big guy, and am looking for an airplane I can sit comfortably in. The Cessna's width is tolerable, but confining.

Thanks,

Richard

Hi Richard,

The Rebel and Elite have a 44" span measured from the outside. Unless you're over 7' tall, you'll fit just fine Richard.

If you want more information on the Elite just send me a PM or Email.

Thanks. I'm over 6', but a lot closer to that than 7'. If I was 7', plus, I think I'd probably have enough from pro ball to afford a Citation. :-) I worked for Cessna for more than a year, and did some work on their Mustang. Even at my height, there wasn't enough knee room for me under its instrument panel!

I have a Rebel that is finished,excepting painting the flatirons. All fiberglass parts were painted royal blue.0320 with 0 hours except for testing everything on the ground. Metal prop, tundra tires. Unable to get pp back due to health reasons. This plane has not. Been FAA inspected. Could be transported up north and inspe