Hey guys, I was just curious as to why the P51H performs so well when compared to counterparts with similar weight (such as the F8F-1B) despite the fact that it carries a ~1400hp engine compared to the 2000+hp engines of similarly classed radial aircraft (Even without WEP). Is it the low drag of the airframe or something else?
Thanks in advance
It produces over 2000HP in WEP mode.
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I can’t really comment on the drag as I’m not well versed in the aerodynamic nuances of inline vs. radial engines.
But I believe the F8F is about 500 pounds heavier empty weight. It was designed with minimum weight in mind, but being carrier capable there are certain considerations you can’t get around.
Arrestor gear and a tougher airframe is needed, which is dead weight once you’re in the air. Air force planes like P-51H don’t need this gear and for this reason virtually always have an advantage over their naval counterparts.
If you’re interested in the subject then I strongly recommend “Greg’s airplanes and automobiles” channel which has videos on the various superprops
Here’s P-51H and F8F
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P-51H produces a lot more than 1400hp when in WEP and is both lighter and more aerodynamic.
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If I recall though, the R2800 (used in naval aircraft) produces over 2400hp?
Radial engines have FAR more drag than in-line engines.
