The PA-32 series began life as the Cherokee Six, a significantly modified six seat development of the PA-28 Cherokee series.


While similar in configuration to the Cherokee, the Cherokee Six differed in a number of major areas. Two of the big differences were implied in its name, a six cylinder O-540 or IO-540 powerplant, and the six seat configuration. While the wing was based on the Cherokee's, the fuselage was substantially larger, with strengthened undercarriage and a larger tail.
Powerplants

PA-32RT-300 Lance II - One 225kW (300hp) Lycoming IO-540-K1G5 fuel injected flat six piston engine driving a two blade c/s propeller.
PA-32R-301 Saratoga SP & II HP - One 225kW (300hp) Textron Lycoming IO-540-K1G5D driving a three blade c/s prop.
PA-32-301T Saratoga II TC - One 225kW (300hp) turbocharged Textron Lycoming TIO-540-AH1A driving a three blade constant speed prop.

Performance

PA-32RT-300 - Max speed 306km/h (165kt), max cruising speed 293km/h (158kt), long range cruising speed 258km/h (139kt). Initial rate of climb 1000ft/min. Service ceiling 14,600ft. Max range with reserves 1600km (865nm).
PA-32R-301 - Max speed 314km/h (170kt), normal cruising speed 302km/h (163kt). Max initial rate of climb 1116ft/min. Service ceiling 15,590ft. Range at normal cruising speed with reserves 1370km (740nm).
PA-32R-301T - Max speed 346km/h (187kt), cruising speed at 10,000ft 324 km/h (175kt), at 15,000ft 343km/h (185kt). Max certificated ceiling 20,000ft. Range at long range cruise power and 10,000ft 1756km (948nm).

Weights

PA-32RT-300 - Empty 912kg (2011lb), max takeoff 1633kg (3600lb).
PA-32R-301 - Empty equipped 1072kg (2364lb), max takeoff 1633kg (3600lb).
PA-32R-301T - Empty equipped 1118kg (2465lb), max takeoff 1633kg (3600lb).

Dimensions

PA-32RT-300 - Wing span 9.99m (32ft 10in), length 8.44m (27ft 9in), height 2.90m (9ft 6in). Wing area 16.2m2 (174.5sq ft).
PA-32R-301T - Wing span 11.02m (36ft 2in), length 8.23m (27ft 0in), height 2.59m (8ft 6in). Wing area 16.6m2 (178.3sq ft).

Capacity

Standard seating for six, some with an optional seventh seat.

Production

By the end of 2004, 7842 PA-32s of all versions have been built, including 4420 PA-32s and 3422 PA-32Rs.