Jay Maynard wrote:

I wouldn't mind flying the "real airplanes" you list, but I've got no
interest at all in aerobatics:

Actually, aerobatics planes are a delight to fly even if you prefer
straight and level. I usually rent a Cap10 to make simple trips, just
because it is so much more fun to fly a responsive plane. Not sure it
would make a good IFR platform, though.