SSD - I have to say that the 11 just looks superb in the flesh and the photos do not do them justice at all. If you saw (or heard) one, you would be itching for a ride.
The 52 is a great aeroplane (speaking as an owner). 360hp just can't be wrong along with rock solid build quality. I am shortly going to check out onto a 50 as well and can't wait. Amazing power to weight (since it weighs just 2/3rds of a 52, same awesome engine.
FNG - ugliness is in the eye of the beholder! Suggest you do try a 52 - I bet you change your mind! Contact Skytrace at Halfpenny Green (now "Wolverhampton Business Airport") where, with probably the best 52 pilot in the UK and definitely the best 52 instructor (Gennady) you too can have a ball at about £180 per hour - money well spent IMHO.
BTW, the answer to the thread elsewhere in this section about short field takeoffs is to discard your Cessna or Piper, and slip into a 52 ...
Not an 11 though - they seem to be a little ground-huggy with those stubby wings.
[This message has been edited by Southern Cross (edited 07 December 2000).]