Intro
Discover the top 5 tanks of World War 2, ranked for their firepower, mobility, and impact on the battlefield. Explore the best Allied and Axis tanks, including the M4 Sherman, Tiger I, and T-34, and learn about their key features, strengths, and weaknesses in this definitive ranking of the wars most iconic armored vehicles.
The Second World War saw the deployment of some of the most iconic and influential tanks in history. These mechanical beasts played a crucial role in shaping the course of the war, and their designs continue to inspire modern armored vehicles. In this article, we'll delve into the top 5 tanks of World War 2, ranking them based on their performance, impact, and innovative features.
What Made a Great Tank in World War 2?
Before we dive into our rankings, let's consider the key factors that made a tank great during World War 2. These include:
- Firepower: The ability to deal significant damage to enemy tanks and fortifications.
- Armor: The thickness and quality of the tank's armor, which determined its survivability on the battlefield.
- Mobility: The tank's speed, agility, and ability to traverse challenging terrain.
- Reliability: The tank's mechanical reliability and ease of maintenance, which affected its availability for combat.
- Innovation: The incorporation of new technologies and design features that improved the tank's performance and capabilities.
Ranking the Top 5 Tanks of World War 2
Based on these factors, here are our top 5 picks for the best tanks of World War 2:
#5: M4 Sherman (USA)
The M4 Sherman was a reliable and versatile tank that served as the backbone of the US Army's armored forces during World War 2. With its 75mm gun and 63mm of armor, the Sherman was a formidable opponent on the battlefield. Its reliability and ease of maintenance made it a favorite among Allied tank crews.
- Firepower: 7/10
- Armor: 6/10
- Mobility: 8/10
- Reliability: 9/10
- Innovation: 6/10
#4: Panzer IV (Germany)
The Panzer IV was a German tank that saw extensive service throughout World War 2. Its 75mm gun and 50mm of armor made it a potent opponent, while its reliability and mobility earned it a reputation as a dependable workhorse.
- Firepower: 8/10
- Armor: 7/10
- Mobility: 8/10
- Reliability: 8/10
- Innovation: 7/10
#3: T-34 (USSR)
The T-34 was a Soviet tank that proved to be a game-changer on the Eastern Front. Its 76.2mm gun and 45mm of armor made it a formidable opponent, while its reliability and mobility allowed it to operate effectively in harsh environments.
- Firepower: 8/10
- Armor: 7/10
- Mobility: 9/10
- Reliability: 8/10
- Innovation: 8/10
#2: Panther (Germany)
The Panther was a German tank that is widely regarded as one of the greatest tanks of all time. Its 75mm gun and 80mm of armor made it a nearly invulnerable opponent, while its reliability and mobility allowed it to operate effectively on the battlefield.
- Firepower: 9/10
- Armor: 9/10
- Mobility: 8/10
- Reliability: 8/10
- Innovation: 9/10
#1: Tiger I (Germany)
The Tiger I was a German tank that is widely regarded as the best tank of World War 2. Its 88mm gun and 100mm of armor made it a nearly unstoppable opponent, while its reliability and mobility allowed it to operate effectively on the battlefield.
- Firepower: 10/10
- Armor: 10/10
- Mobility: 7/10
- Reliability: 7/10
- Innovation: 10/10
Gallery of World War 2 Tanks
World War 2 Tank Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most produced tank of World War 2?
+The most produced tank of World War 2 was the T-34, with over 80,000 units produced.
Which tank had the thickest armor in World War 2?
+The Tiger I had the thickest armor in World War 2, with a maximum armor thickness of 100mm.
What was the fastest tank of World War 2?
+The fastest tank of World War 2 was the M24 Chaffee, with a top speed of 45 mph (72 km/h).
Final Thoughts
The top 5 tanks of World War 2 were all remarkable machines that played a significant role in shaping the course of the war. From the reliable M4 Sherman to the formidable Tiger I, each tank brought its unique strengths and weaknesses to the battlefield. As we reflect on the history of these iconic machines, we're reminded of the importance of innovation, reliability, and firepower in the development of modern armored vehicles.