Black 6 Thu 19th Apr update re Spit II

[irR4tiOn4L]

The top speed of this aeroplane is the same as that of N.3171 but is reached at 17,600 feet, 1400 feet lower than the Mk.I Spitfire. Consequent upon this and the increase in power of the Merlin XII over the Merlin III below full throttle height the aeroplane is about 6 - 7 miles per hour faster at heights less than 17,000 feet and about 4 - 8 m.p.h. slower at heights above 20,000 feet. It should be noted that though the boost pressure on the Merlin XII is +9 lb. per sq.inch as against +6 1/4 lb. per sq.inch on the Merlin III there is little difference in the engine power at heights of 16,000 feet and above.

I found this the most interesting from the OP's link.

It was only slightly faster than that Spit I below 17k and slightly slower above 20k if I've read that correctly.