Originally posted by Hortlund
How did you do this test? alt+x and a stopwatch?
If yes,
Would there be different results if you zoom-climbed, then went level to pick up speed and then zoom-climb again?
The problem with alt+x is that this provides for nowhere near max climb rate. For the Spitfire, max climb would likely be at a speed closer to 160 mph, than 200. Moreover, the climb angle would naturally be greater as well.
The facts are, from sea level to 10k, the Spit XIV outclimbs the G-10, above that the 109 has the advantage, albeit by no great margin. As it is, if a G-10 tangles with a Spit XIV, climbing won't be an issue, surviving is the issue.
Zoom climbs will gain no more altitude than steady state at optimal speed and angle.
My regards,
Widewing