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Re: Was it a foregone conclusion when a ME109G
The designation Bf109G covers a wide range of variants over a number of years. After making the point that the pilot may often have been more dangerous than the aircraft he was flying; it is probably safe to say that any early version of the Gustav, up to the main production variant the G-6, would be inferior in combat to the P-51 or later P-47s, but not by much. The later versions with DB605AS or D engine variants, the G-10 and K, remained competitive in the hands of competent pilots - which were in decreasing numbers late in the war.
Yes, versions encumbered with the additional underwing cannon (or rocket pods) would be more vulnerable, but these were the only versions that could reasonably be described as dedicated bomber-attackers. This role was more commonly (where possible) left to the Fw190 with its heavier armament and better head-on protection. With superior performance at higher altitudes, the 109G was better used in fighting (or at least distracting) the US escort fighters.
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