Focke-Wulf FW-190 vs Supermarine Spitfire
The Fw 190 and Spitfire are the classic Luftwaffe-vs-RAF opponents — both elite fighter warbirds, the Spitfire far more available.
Safety Record
Absolute counts scale with fleet size — the most-produced types log more events without being less safe. Compare the % fatal.
| NTSB (1982–now) | Focke-Wulf FW-190 | Supermarine Spitfire |
|---|---|---|
| All events | — | 3 |
| Serious | — | 0 |
| Fatal | — | 2 |
| Fatalities | — | 2 |
| % Fatal | — | 67% |
Full Specs Comparison
Swipe to see all specs
| Spec / Model | Focke-Wulf FW-190 | Supermarine Spitfire |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
| Price Range | — | — |
| Category | — | — |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 1 | 1 |
| Horsepower | 1,700 HP | 1,470 HP |
| Cruise Speed | 350 kts (648 km/h) | 290 kts (537 km/h) |
| Range | 540 nm (1,000 km) | 852 nm (1,578 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 37,000 ft (11,278 m) | 36,000 ft (10,973 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 10,803 lbs (4,900 kg) | 7,400 lbs (3,357 kg) |
| Useful Load | 1,200 lbs (544 kg) | 1,800 lbs (816 kg) |
| Fuel Burn | 80.0 GPH (303 L/h) | 60.0 GPH (227 L/h) |
| Engines | 1 x Piston | 1 x Piston |
Which Should You Buy: Focke-Wulf FW-190 or Supermarine Spitfire?
Bottom line: Choose the Spitfire for a larger flying fleet, support and replica options; choose the Fw 190 for rarity and German heritage (often reproductions). Spitfire = availability; Fw 190 = rarity.
Pick the FW-190 if…
- Faster cruise — 350 kts vs 290 kts.
Pick the Spitfire if…
- Longer range — 852 nm vs 540 nm.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Focke-Wulf FW-190 or Supermarine Spitfire?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The FW-190 cruises at 350 kts with 540 nm range.
The Spitfire cruises at 290 kts with 852 nm range.
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 Focke-Wulf FW-190 and Supermarine Spitfire?
Cruise: 350 vs 290 kts.
Range: 540 vs 852 nm.
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?
FW-190: 1 seats / 1,200 lb useful load.
Spitfire: 1 seats / 1,800 lb useful load.
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 re-checked on a rolling cycle — most within a few days · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data