[robtek]

I still would say that the average, fresh from the factory, Bf109E should be able to reach 500km/h!

Of course the speed later on varies, depending on how the machine is handled.

If the machine is handled carefully, always warmed up enough and never exceeded the power ratings and also didn't have

accidents during the ground handling or damage through enemy action, then it might be even better then during the acceptance trials.

Otherwise, if one or more of the above conditions isn't met, the speed will be lower.

But then, if the speed and/or handling has detoriated to a given point, the aircraft will get a major overhaul or be sent to training units or wrecked.

If there is a variation from the factory-set standard speed it must work both ways, or it is biased, imo.