How accurate are the "specs" for the various models? For instance, comparing a 1973 150L with a 1976 150M...it looks like I gain 73nm with the 150L and also gain 62lbs of useful load with a 150L...so what is the argument for choosing a 150M over say a 150L? It can't be for reasons pertaining to better crosswind performance...can it?
Aircraft manufacturers have never been known for there truthfulness when it comes to performance numbers. 150s of every year/model are essentially...150s. Compare the features that are different rather than the POHs from the various models. For instance the earlier models were narrower than the later models (less shoulder room). The '75M and earlier had fuses, the '76M and later had circuit breakers. Pull start vs. key start. Alternator vs. generator. Then again, when you start looking at actual airplanes, all bets are off as some owners have upgraded the standard features. Book numbers for useful load/weight are pretty much useless as no present day 150 is equipped exactly like it was when it was first delivered. Just like people, airplanes gain weight as they age.
