Continental® 500 Series AvGas Engines

The Continental® 500 series engines, including the impressive 550 series with cross-flow heads used in Cirrus®, Columbia®, Mooney®, and Tecnam® aircraft, are known for producing more than their rated horsepower with remarkable smoothness and longevity. Ranging from 250 to 375 horsepower, these engines are innovative, versatile, and exceptional.

500 Series Models: IO-520, TSIO-520, GTSIO-520, IO-550, TSIO-550

First introduced in 1964, powering the Beechcraft® Bonanza and Cessna® Centurion, the 500 series includes both 520 and 550 cubic-inch models available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged configurations.

Continental® 500 Series AvGas Engines

Engine System

6-Cylinder, Gasoline, Fuel Injected,
Spark Ignition, Four-Stroke

cooling system

Air Cooled, Naturally Aspirated

Configuration Options

Tractor Right (CW) Rotating

INDUSTRY LEADER

Continental Aerospace Technologies™ has solidified its position as an industry leader with the 500 series engines. These engines exemplify decades of innovation and expertise in engine design and manufacturing. Known for their reliability, efficiency, and powerful performance, the 500 series sets the benchmark in general aviation.

ALTITUDE PERFORMANCE

The Continental® 500 series engines are engineered to deliver exceptional performance at high altitudes. Featuring advanced fuel management systems and robust engineering, these engines maintain optimal power and efficiency even as altitude increases. This makes the 500 series ideal for a wide range of aviation applications, including personal, commercial, and high-performance aircraft, where reliable high-altitude performance is essential.

FUEL CONSUMPTION

Fuel efficiency is a standout feature of the Continental® 500 series engines, as highlighted in discussions with Continental Aerospace Technologies™ leadership. These engines are designed to optimize fuel use, delivering strong performance while minimizing consumption. Advanced fuel systems with efficient continuous flow fuel injection, ensure precise fuel delivery and reduce wastage.

TECHNICAL DATA

Certified fuels

100/100LL AvGas (520 & 550) & 94UL (TSIO-550-K Only)

BORE

length

Displacement

Rated power

Stroke

Comp. Ratio

Dry Weight

TURBO MODEL AVAILABILITY

Yes

MAXIMUM RATED RPM

Height

Width

Highlighted Applications

Cirrus SR22 (IO-550)

Piper PA-46 Malibu (IO-520)

P2012 STOL (GTSIO-520)

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