I seem to recall Sir John Allison saying in an article for Pilot magazine about flying the P-40, that the Allison was ‘Smooth’ and ‘Quieter’ that a Merlin, but not as ‘Exciting’.
After hearing various in-cockpit recordings of the Allison from a P-40, it does seem to be the case.
I must admit though, I’ve never heard anyone say that the Merlin was a difficult engine to handle.
I think it was a bit like the Griffon – on tickover it sounded a bit rough but when it was opened up it was sweet.
I thought it was the other way round.
As I understand it (from in the cockpit), the Griffon is supposed to sound and feel smooth at idle or low rpm, whereas the Merlin doesn’t. However, as the power is increased, the Griffon sounds and feels rougher, and the Merlin smoother.
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