Aerocar Mini-IMP Moulton Taylor

Mini-IMP: The Homebuilt Fighter Jet

The Mini-IMP is a masterpiece of aircraft design, engineered to look and fly like a miniature military fighter. Its philosophy is not about simplicity, but about speed and efficiency. It’s a plane for the builder who dreams of high-level performance on a garage budget, using radical aerodynamics to fly fast and far on low power.

Why Is It So Radically Different?

• Pusher Propeller: The engine is in the middle of the aircraft, and the propeller is at the very back. This allows clean, undisturbed air to flow over the wings, drastically reducing drag and boosting efficiency.

• Inverted V-Tail: Its distinctive downward “V” tail looks futuristic, protects the propeller from ground strikes, and reduces aerodynamic drag.

• Retractable Landing Gear: The wheels retract into the fuselage after takeoff, turning the aircraft into a sleek, aerodynamic arrow.

• Aluminum Construction: It’s built like a commercial or military aircraft with riveted aluminum sheets, making it durable and weather-resistant.

• Advanced Engineering: A long driveshaft connects the mid-mounted engine to the rear propeller, allowing the plane’s nose to be sharp and providing the pilot with incredible visibility.

Performance and Key Numbers

For a homebuilt aircraft, its performance figures are extraordinary and surpass many commercial planes.

General Specifications:

• Crew: 1 pilot

• Wingspan: 25.5 ft (7.77 m)

• Length: 16 ft (4.8 m)

• Empty Weight: 570 lbs (260 kg)

• Max Takeoff Weight: 1,000 lbs (454 kg)

• Useful Load: 420 lbs (190 kg)

Performance (with a 60-80 hp engine):

• Maximum Speed (Vne): 200+ mph (320+ km/h)

• Cruise Speed: 150 – 160 mph (240 – 257 km/h)

• Stall Speed: 50 mph (80 km/h)

• Rate of Climb: 1,200 ft/min (365 m/min)

• Range: 500+ miles (800+ km)

• G-Limits (Load Factor): +9G / -9G. It’s structurally stronger than the human body.

• Required Runway: 1,150 – 1,500 ft (350 – 450 m)

In summary, the Mini-IMP is not a beginner’s project but is intended for the builder seeking maximum performance. It is a fast, efficient, and technically fascinating aircraft that offers the thrill of a personal fighter jet for a fraction of the cost. It is the victory of aerodynamics over brute force.