Both claim to be MD-82 (DC-9-82) but the rear is different on both. Can someone please Explain this to me its been bugging me for years! the same difference appears on the MD-83 (dc-9-83 aircraft. Thanks!http://www.airliners.net/open.file?id=432135and http://www.airliners.net/open.file?id=430194Chad Black

Hi Chad,The simple answer is the early production MD-80 series had the old DC-9 style tail cone. MD redesigned the tail cone for aerodynamic drag reduction and better airflow. This new cone was introduced on late production MD-80 series aircraft, thus the differences you noted.Cheers,JohnBoeing 727/737 Mechanic