The pages deal with the official specification for the Bf 109E-3 model, and note the maximum speed of 500 km/h at Sea Level, and 570 km/h at 5000m, with +/- 5% tolerenace on top speed. These figures are in close agreement with German, Swiss and French test results of Bf 109E-1 and E-3. Of particular interest are the figures given in the German specifications as the smallest turning radius of the 109E. These are, at Sea Level and at 6000 m, with and without deploying flaps to aid turning : Without use of flaps : at 0 m altitude - 170 m (557 feet), at 6000 m (19 685 feet) altitude - 320 m (1050 feet). With use of flaps : at 0 m altitude - 125 m (410 feet), at 6000 m (19 685 feet) altitude - 230 m (754 feet). The report also gives figures for climb times and distances required take off and landing runs. Similiar figures are given by a calculation by Messerschmitt AG on Bf 109E turn times and radius in an internal Messerschmitt report. The calculation was based on a similiar set of data, but assumes the slightlly lower power output of the DB 601A-1 at 990 PS. Conditions in the calculation were 2540 kg weight, 990 PS output, an altitude of 0 m and no height loss. Under these conditions, the turning characteristics of the Bf 109E were as follows : Turn time for 360 degrees: 18,92 seconds. Turn radius for above turn: 203 m Take note that the smallest turning radius and the best turning time do not occur at the same airspeed, which would Further calculations were made for a diving turn of a descent rate of -50 m/sec, which would be equivalent translate to an overall power output Turn time for 360 degrees in a -50m/sec diving turn : 11,5 seconds. Turn radius for the -50m/sec diving turn above : 190 m See for graphical illustration HERE. |