The Republic P-47M Thunderbolt was the fastest propellor-driven, single-seat fighter/interceptor to serve in any air force during WWII. It was fitted with the Pratt & Whitney R-2800-57. This engine made 2,800 hp @ 2,800 rpm at 35,000 feet. The aircraft actually attained 507 mph at an altitude of 34,300 feet. 2,800 hp is 133% of rated power. At military power (100%), the P-47M could sustain 470 mph. 435 mph was attained at 81% of its rated power (1,700 hp). It had a climb rate at sea level of 4,900 fpm. At 20,000 feet, it was still rocketing up at 4,400 fpm, and got there in 4 minutes, 15 seconds. Time to 30,000 feet was only 6 minutes, 45 seconds. Yet it had a usable range of 1,075 miles.
Like a Hemi-powered Dodge Charger of the late 60's, it couldn't turn but in a straight line, it was just about unbeatable.
