Originally Posted by
Ernie P.
Al; my only question was what you meant by (para) "less compromise". The Zero was built for long range performance and maneuverability, with few or no compromises. No self sealing gas tanks, no armor and anywhere you hit it, you hit a gas tank. It performed (but not well at higher speeds) very well, but at a heavy cost in vulnerability. Okay; I'll get something up later today or tomorrow. Right now, I'm headed to the flying field. Thanks; Ernie P.
Yes, that was my point. The Zero was designed to be maneuverable and long ranged. That meant it had to be light, so things like armor and firepower were sacrificed to achieve that goal. The Wildcat was a much more balanced design, and, in my opinion anyway, at least as good an airplane if not better.