Zalusithix
Member
T6 to T7 was a nice jump in per trip profit due to having twice the cargo space, but it was somewhat offset by the large pad requirement eliminating the more lucrative outposts as trading options. Still, with the exception of the Clipper, for the price it couldn't be beat. In the case of the Clipper, if you weren't ranking up imperial from the get go, then access to it comes too late.
T7 to Python nets a bit over 25% additional raw cargo space, and the trade route options gained by the outpost landing capability can result in up to a 50% increase in profit per ton. It gives up the great visibility of the T series, but on the flip side it can actually defend itself.
T7 to T9 results in a 130% increase in hauling capacity, but has an Achilles heel in the jump range department. You pretty much have to use downsized and D rank equipment all over the place in order to crack even the 13ly mark. Much like the T7, it's also going to be horrible at defending itself unless you sacrifice storage for a large shield.
So a Python has the range, defense, speed, and outpost advantages. The T9 has the superior cockpit visibility (easier landing), and an absolutely massive cargo capacity. From a pure profit standpoint, the T9 will win, but the trade route will have to be optimized for the jump range. Every additional jump takes time to align and perform (especially with the least maneuverable ship in the game), and time is money. In a unoptimized route, I wouldn't be surprised if the Python would net more profit in an hour.
100 mill? Looking to put beam turrets on it I take it?
