RE: Choosing my first plane, and simulator question.
There is nothing cheesy about trainers, some with symetrical airfoil wings are quite capable aerobatic planes.
I would certainly recommend against a warbird no matter how much sim time you have.
Hangar 9 has a P-51 PTS which is touted as a trainer (I don't agree) but is ok IF you have an instructor to help.
No instructor? Get a trainer or carry a large garbage bag with you.