1951 Beechcraft Bonanza C35: A Fast and Efficient Classic Ready for Auction

The Beechcraft Bonanza has long held a reputation as one of the most iconic single-engine aircraft in general aviation history. Among its many variants, the 1951 Beechcraft Bonanza C35 stands out as a classic that combines speed, efficiency, and comfort in a way that continues to impress pilots decades after its introduction. For aviation enthusiasts and pilots seeking a balance of performance and reliability, this aircraft represents an exceptional opportunity.

This particular Bonanza, serial number D-2977, registration N648D, is a beautifully maintained example that exemplifies why the Bonanza line has remained a favorite among discerning aviators for over 75 years. With upgrades including a Continental IO-470 engine and a leather interior, this aircraft is the perfect blend of heritage and modern enhancements. Let’s explore its history, uses, technical specifications, and why this fast and efficient Beechcraft Bonanza C35 is worth your attention.

The Beechcraft Legacy: Innovation in General Aviation

To appreciate the 1951 Beechcraft Bonanza C35, one must understand the heritage of its manufacturer—Beech Aircraft Corporation. Founded in 1932 by Walter H. and Olive Ann Beech, the company quickly established itself as a leader in high-quality, high-performance aircraft. Beechcraft’s designs were known for their precision engineering, robust construction, and pilot-friendly features.

The Bonanza line debuted in 1947 and immediately captured the market as an advanced, high-performance personal aircraft. It was the first all-metal, low-wing monoplane with retractable landing gear produced for general aviation after World War II. The combination of speed, sleek aerodynamics, and comfort made the Bonanza the “Cadillac of the sky.”

The C35 variant, introduced in 1951, incorporated refinements over its predecessors, including structural enhancements and aerodynamic improvements to its distinctive V-tail design. This unique tail configuration, although polarizing in appearance, contributed to the aircraft’s efficiency and speed.

The Role of the Bonanza in Aviation History

Since its introduction, the Bonanza series has been a popular choice for private owners, business executives, and flight enthusiasts who demand performance. It was designed for cross-country travel, offering a comfortable and efficient means of flying long distances without sacrificing speed.

The Bonanza was widely used for:

• Personal Transportation: A favorite for pilots seeking a practical yet fast aircraft for business and leisure travel.
  
• Air Taxi and Charter Services: Its efficiency and speed made it ideal for on-demand regional transport.
  
• Training for Complex Aircraft: With retractable landing gear and controllable-pitch propeller, the Bonanza was an excellent stepping stone to higher-performance aircraft.
  

The 1951 C35 model represents a significant chapter in this lineage, blending the charm of early Bonanzas with upgrades that maintain its relevance in today’s skies.

Why the 1951 Beechcraft Bonanza C35 is Fast and Efficient

When discussing the C35, the words fast and efficient immediately come to mind. Its streamlined design, retractable landing gear, and V-tail all contribute to reduced drag and improved performance. This particular aircraft cruises at 165 knots at 75% power around 8,000 feet—an impressive figure for its era and still competitive among many modern piston singles.

Efficiency is further demonstrated by its fuel capacity of 64 gallons usable, delivering a range of approximately 800 miles. For pilots planning long cross-country flights, this means fewer stops, reduced travel time, and an overall more economical flying experience.

The upgraded Continental IO-470 engine provides 260 horsepower, giving the C35 additional power over the original factory configuration. This results in stronger climb performance and enhanced cruise capabilities, all while maintaining dependable operation and reliability.

Detailed Aircraft Specifications and Features

Airframe

This 1951 Beechcraft C35 Bonanza is a single-engine, low-wing monoplane that exemplifies Beechcraft’s commitment to quality. Its airframe has a total time of 8,767 hours, a testament to its enduring design and robust construction. With a useful load of 1,080 pounds, it offers ample capacity for passengers, baggage, and fuel, making it an excellent cross-country platform.

• Registration: N648D
  
• Serial Number: D-2977
  
• Annual Inspection Date: April 22, 2025
  
• Fuel Capacity: 64 gallons usable
  
• Stall Speed: 52 knots
  
• Range: ~800 miles
  
• Cruise Speed: 165 knots (75% @ ~8,000 ft)
  

This airframe has received careful maintenance and upgrades over the years, ensuring its continued reliability and performance.

Engine

Powering this Bonanza is the Continental IO-470-LCN, delivering 260 horsepower. This fuel-injected, six-cylinder engine enhances both performance and fuel efficiency compared to the original carbureted configuration.

• Serial Number: 201550-72L
  
• Time Since Major Overhaul (SMOH): 706 hours
  
• Date of Overhaul: November 1, 2000
  

This engine upgrade significantly boosts the aircraft’s climb and cruise performance, making it one of the most capable Bonanzas of its era.

Propeller

The aircraft features a Hartzell PHC-L3YF-1RF three-blade, constant-speed propeller, designed for smooth operation and improved aerodynamics.

• Material: Aluminum
  
• Serial Number: F03336B
  
• Blade Serial Numbers: J49210, J49214, J49215
  
• Time Since New (SNEW): 706 hours
  
• Date of Installation: November 1, 2000
  

This combination of modern propeller technology and upgraded engine ensures maximum performance and reduced vibration for a smoother ride.

Avionics

Equipped for IFR operations (though not currently IFR certified), this Bonanza includes a suite of reliable avionics that provide situational awareness and navigation precision:

• BendixKing KMA 24 TSO Audio Panel
  
• BendixKing KX 155 & KX 165 TSO Nav/Com Radios
  
• Sigtronics Intercom
  
• Electronics International Fuel Computer
  
• Dual Fuel Level Gauge
  
• Dual Oil Pressure/Temp Gauge
  
• Dual Volts/Amps Display
  
• Manifold/Fuel Pressure Gauge
  
• Horizon Instruments P-1000 Digital Tachometer
  
• BendixKing KI-209 & KI-208 VOR/LOC Indicators (with Glideslope)
  
• S-TEC 60 Autopilot
  
• Standard Flight Instruments (Airspeed, Altimeter, VSI, Attitude Indicator, Heading Indicator, Compass, Turn Coordinator)
  

These systems make the aircraft well-equipped for serious cross-country flying, with redundancy and reliability built in.

Exterior

The exterior is finished in white with blue and dark blue accents, giving it a timeless look that reflects its classic heritage. Minor paint chips have been noted in the images, but overall, the aircraft presents very well for its age, with no known corrosion.

Interior

Inside, this Bonanza boasts a leather interior upgrade, providing cream, tan, and brown tones for a refined, comfortable environment. With seating for four, passengers can enjoy the benefits of a spacious cabin and ergonomic layout—perfect for long-distance travel.

Additional Features

• WATT LED landing and taxi lights
  
• One-piece windscreen for better visibility
  
• Passenger and third-row windows for enhanced cabin lighting
  
• Tip tanks for extended range
  
• Standard switches (no piano keys)
  
• No missing logbooks
  
• No known corrosion
  
• Incident history: Nose gear collapse in December 1999, fully repaired
  

Auction Information

This 1951 Beechcraft Bonanza C35 is available through Airspace Auctions:

• Auction Dates: September 10, 2025 – September 17, 2025
  
• Starting Bid: $35,000
  
• Buyer Premium: 6%
  
• Deposit Required: $3,000
  
• Location: Fort Worth, TX
  
• Contact Person: Matt Hutton
  

For pilots, collectors, and aviation enthusiasts, this represents a rare opportunity to acquire a classic Beechcraft Bonanza that is both fast and efficient, with modern upgrades and meticulous care.

Why Choose This Bonanza?

Few aircraft embody the phrase fast and efficient quite like the Beechcraft Bonanza C35. With a cruise speed of 165 knots, long range, and an upgraded powerplant, this aircraft remains a standout performer in the general aviation world. Its combination of speed, comfort, and reliability makes it ideal for cross-country flying, business travel, or simply enjoying the freedom of the skies.

This specific example, with its Continental IO-470 engine, three-blade Hartzell propeller, and modernized avionics, offers performance and value that few classic aircraft can match. Add in a leather interior upgrade, LED lighting, and tip tanks, and you have a package that is as practical as it is beautiful.

Final Thoughts

For pilots who demand performance, efficiency, and timeless design, the 1951 Beechcraft Bonanza C35 is an exceptional choice. It stands as a testament to Beechcraft’s engineering excellence and continues to deliver a flying experience that rivals many newer models. With its fast cruise speeds, long range, and comfortable interior, this Bonanza is ready to serve its next owner for years to come.

If you’re ready to own a piece of aviation history that still delivers modern performance, don’t miss this auction. The opportunity to acquire a well-maintained, upgraded C35 Bonanza at an attractive starting bid is rare.

Specifications and/or descriptions are provided as introductory information only and do not constitute representations or warranties. Verification of specifications remains the sole responsibility of the purchaser.