I think the proper term here is a 'keeper'
His experience is probably the most important thing. If I had a girlfriend who bought me a plane, I think I'd be psyched no matter what it was (as long as it wasn't a trainer) - the thought definitely counts, and its nice to be surprised, and maybe even have fun with a plane you didn't think you'd want.
If you were my girlfriend, I'd want you to get me the plane that you would want me to have.