For the longest time I used to think that the Panther-A was the first panther modification and the D model had a worse turret traverse speed because the design was later simplified for mass production or something like that.
I have no idea where I got this from and have now heard that the D was in fact the first model? But it is faster than the other models.
Can someone knowledgeable explain what is going on with the naming of the Panthers and is the D model actually the first production model?
Wikipedia
The naming of Panther production variants did not follow alphabetical order, unlike most German tanks – the initial variant, Panther “D” (Ausf. D), was followed by “A” and “G” variants.
As well as
Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg AG (MAN) were given the task of designing a new 30- to 35-tonne tank, designated VK 30.02, by April 1942.
Which this prototype is the one that’s been most recently added in terms of the panther section.
The A in game is a late A, the engines were governerd to 2500 rpm and 600 Ps from 3000 rpm and 700 Ps, to increase lifetime. This lowered the top speed.
I actually made a suggestion for an early A, which would in game be the 2nd best variant (after F, or for some even the best.)
I heard some people say that the G is somehow the best and better than the F? why is this the case?
Preference of the Turret i suppose. Technically the Late G we have has solved the Shot trap, the Turret is somewhat bouncier. But raw armor especially when angling the F is better and has a faster fire rate and no muzzle brake. And an Mg 42. For me its clearly better.
Hull Armor is similar between G and F. Both stronger than A.
The best panther is the D, it’s just more nimble and is the mantra of the panther… Be fast and cover ground, let the following forces catch up.
Keep the revs up, and when turning slide it into the corner and keep it moving. No stopping.
Holding W ftw.
I don’t fight a lot of F panthers but looking at the protection analysis it seems that the hull mg port is quite easy to pen as it is not like the King Tiger MG port. Is this accurate? if so then it would be a big weakspot. If I encounter one: should I go for this shot if I’m in a vehicle like the jumbo which cant pen the turret with APHE? Or am I better off going for the rangefinders?
No, all Balls inside the Kugelblende 50, 80 and 100 (Pz III/IV, V and Tiger 1 / 2) should be the same ball.
With 135-200mm thickness.
https://community.gaijin.net/issues/p/warthunder/i/pcoMOwFDvGXz
