As a 2nd Spitfire with Griffon engine, Spitfire MKXVIIIe is the worst one in the whole Griffon Spitfires; it is heavier than MK 14 due to additional armor, and much worse than LF MK9. Its climb rate and speed are also pretty normal, with only about 1900 HP, The only advantage is the high altitude speed, with speeds of over 700km/h, but that will make the Griffon engine overheat pretty fast. So what does that mean to keep Spitfire MK18 still at 5.7? Considering Spitfire LF MK9 is generally better than MK18.
It also has another fuel tank in the front
It is too heavy, mcuh heavier than MK9 over 400kg
LF MK9 is better because it is better suited for the scenario war thunder simulates, short range medium altitude interception and low altitude furball, it can carry less fuel, it turns better, climbs almost the same at altitudes WT actually takes place, oh yeah it is also lighter even when empty.
It’s hilarious, I never see griffons, even if LF Mk.9 is buried under 2 of such it is by 10k miles more common than them.
Think of P-47 D-28 vs P-47 N-15 comparison.
Sometimes I can see Spitfire MK14, someone will purchase the mk14c, but yeah, I never see anyone play MK18, I wonder if Gaijin already forgot this plane as many WWII aircrafts. Weight and Engine power are never expected as part of BR balance