[Sutts]

Type of improvement:
More realistic/dynamic engine temperature model

Explanation of proposals:

For full realism I'd also like to see the following factors affect engine operating temperature please:

altitude (colder air at altitude = cooler)
airspeed (more air through radiator = cooler)
radiator obstructions (like lowered landing gear leg on spit)
mixture (richer mixture = cooler)
boost (lower boost = cooler)
rpm (lower rpm = cooler) WE HAVE THIS ONE

Also radiator flap setting should affect speed and yaw.

In addition, the early marks of Spitfire had a single radiator that was partially obscured by a landing gear leg. This made in necessary to takeoff reasonably quickly and avoid lengthy taxying.
It would be nice to feel the same urgency to avoid overheating on the ground as the real pilots did in the battle. Currently, I can run at high throttle on the ground for long periods without any overheating problems.

Some interesting notes from Spit II manual:

The coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostatic control (automatic) and a radiator flap which regulates the flow of air through the radiator, but which cannot be fully closed. The position of the radiator flap affects the lateral trim of the aircraft (the radiator being under the starboard wing) and can usually be kept in the closed position during cruising flight.

ACTIONS AFTER TAKE-OFF
Close the radiator shutter (unless a high power climb is done, when the lever should be a little forward).


Benefits:
Greater need to watch gauges and manage engine. Improved immersion - you feel you have a real engine up front.
User experiences the same problems that pilots of the day had to face. Increased tension before takeoff.