Curtiss P-40 vs Supermarine Spitfire
The P-40 Warhawk and Spitfire are WWII fighter warbirds — the P-40 the rugged Allison fighter, the Spitfire the premium Merlin icon.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Curtiss P-40 | Supermarine Spitfire |
|---|---|---|
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| Price Range | $3,003,046 | — |
| Category | — | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | — |
| Cruise Speed | 1 kts (2 km/h) | — |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | — |
Which Should You Buy: Curtiss P-40 or Supermarine Spitfire?
Bottom line: Choose the P-40 for a more attainable, rugged warbird; choose the Spitfire for iconic handling and top-tier pedigree (at higher cost). P-40 = rugged/attainable; Spitfire = icon/premium.
Pick the P-40 if…
Pick the Spitfire if…
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Curtiss P-40 or Supermarine Spitfire?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The P-40 cruises at 1 kts.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Curtiss P-40 and Supermarine Spitfire?
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
P-40: 1 seats.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data