Found this on the National Archives, however after going through all 180+ pages I’m not sure it mentions actual top speed and max rate of climb, it’s mostly about fuel range tests. It does specifically mention using incendiary bombs as well.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=164469
Some of the graphs seem to be from this test though with rockets fitted…IDK.
https://recordsearch.naa.gov.au/SearchNRetrieve/Interface/ViewImage.aspx?B=1084510
After looking in to this a little further, I have drawn some conclusions.
All the Packard Merlin P-51 variants in game currently use the V-1650-7 with different settings under WEP. From what I have read the V-1650-7 is most similar to the Merlin 66.
The above listed report pegs the Merlin 66 at near identical ratings to the Merlin 66 in game in the Spitfire LF IX without the 150 octane fuel. 1400hp takeoff power and 1705hp under WEP.
So this would roughly indicate the CA-18 Mustang Mk 23 with a Merlin 66 has a similar performance envelope to other P-51s in game, and its BR will be defined by how the power ratings compare to them. The P-51D 30 is apparently using 150 octane fuel as well giving it the higher horsepower capability under WEP. I have found evidence that Australia had 150 octane fuel around (owned by RAF) but didn’t seek to use it. So the Mk 23 would be around BR 4.3-4.7. Unless someone decided that even though we didn’t use 150 octane, it was theoretically possible to do it, and gave it in game. BR then probably is around 5.3-5.7.
The Merlin 70 equipped version might actually be slightly better overall.
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GIVE ME MORE MUSTANGS!!! I want all the mustangs!! +100000 :)
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