Thunder Mustang

Plane & Pilot
Verified
Edited By: Omar Filipović
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article presents a detailed comparison of specifications and performance data for the Thunder Mustang and the North American P-51D.
  • The Thunder Mustang is a significantly smaller and lighter aircraft, featuring a different engine (Falconer V12 vs. RR Merlin) with less than half the horsepower of the P-51D.
  • Despite its smaller scale and lower horsepower, the Thunder Mustang matches the P-51D's maximum speed at sea level, boasts a faster cruise speed, a dramatically superior climb rate, and significantly lower fuel consumption.
  • Conversely, the North American P-51D maintains a considerable advantage in service ceiling and overall payload/fuel capacity due to its larger dimensions and more powerful engine.
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Tecnam P2008
Thunder Mustang North American P-51D
Engine Make/Model: Falconer V12 RR Merlin
Displacement (cu. in.): 601 1649
Horsepower: 640 1490
Fuel Type: 100LL 100LL
Four-Blade Propeller (in.): 94 MT 134 Ham Std
Equivalent Flat Plate Area (sq. ft.): 8.1 13.4
Landing Gear Type: Conv/retr Conv/Petr
Max Takeoff Weight (lbs.): 3200 11,600
Empty Weight (lbs.): 2200 7635
Useful Load, Std. (lbs.): 1000 3965
Usable Fuel, Std. (gals./lbs.): 102 180
Payload, Full Std. Fuel (lbs.): 388 2885
Wingspan: 23′ 10″ 37′
Overall Length: 24′ 3″ 42′ 3″
Wing Area (sq. ft.): 104 236
Wing Loading (lbs./sq. ft.): 28.8 49.2
Power Loading (lbs./hp): 5.0 7.7
Seating Capacity: 2 2
PERFORMANCE
Max Speed SL (kts.): 326 326
Max Cruise Speed (kts., 75%): 300 250
Cruise Fuel Burn (gph/lbs): 25 60
Best Rate Of Climb, SL (fpm): 5200 2800
Service Ceiling (ft.): 25,000 46,000
Stall (Vso,kts.): 68 88

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