FLYBOYJ
"THE GREAT GAZOO"
Lets not forget our highest scoring pilots, Bong and McGuire, used P-38s. I would have to go with the P-38, mostly cause I can't swim ALSO, the P-38 has no critical engine and twin rudders. You have positive airflow over the rudders no matter which engine quits. The Mustang did it's job admirably albeit maybe not comfortably. I would be very nervous flying behind a Merlin over all that water. VMC for most WWII types is between 125 and 145mph, which gives a safe margin in single engine cruise. For example, the VMC of a B-25 is 145mph, with an engine feathered you can still cruise at 160-170mph.
jim
Agree 100%