ChatGPT weighed in. This is taking out the 163 and 262 which would be 1/2 on the list.
1. Bf 109K-4
This is the benchmark.
In AHIII nothing with a prop gets off the line and keeps pulling like the K-4. Light airframe, brutal MW-50 power, and very low drag. From ~200 IAS upward it just keeps adding speed while others taper.
Why it’s #1: best power-to-weight and best drag profile combined.
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2. Fw 190D-9
The Dora accelerates like a freight train once it’s rolling.
Slightly heavier than the K-4, but the Jumo engine delivers smooth, sustained push. In level flight or a shallow dive it closes gaps fast and recovers energy better than almost anything else.
Why it’s #2: relentless mid-speed acceleration and excellent energy recovery.
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3. Tempest Mk V
This airplane is violence at low altitude.
The Sabre engine gives instant torque, and the Tempest’s aerodynamics stay clean at speed. From ~250–400 IAS it accelerates harder than most pilots expect and dominates deck-level extensions.
Why it’s #3: unmatched low-alt acceleration among Allied props.
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4. P-47M
Heavy, yes. Slow to start, no.
Once power is on, the P-47M builds speed faster than almost any Allied fighter, especially above 300 IAS. Turbo + water + clean high-speed design matters a lot in AHIII.
Why it’s here: enormous horsepower that actually converts into speed.
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5. Spitfire Mk XIV
This one surprises people.
The Griffon Spit accelerates brutally from low-to-mid speeds, especially right after a maneuver. It doesn’t hold acceleration as long as the Tempest or K-4, but the initial shove is excellent.
Why it ranks here: explosive burst acceleration, especially post-turn.
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6. Ta 152H
This is altitude-biased but still earns the slot.
Below its optimal band it’s merely good; in its band it accelerates extremely well for a long-wing aircraft. In AHIII, above ~20k it out-pulls most props in level acceleration.
Why it makes the list: sustained high-alt acceleration others can’t match.
