[Ruy Horta]

If a/c are close in performance in terms of speed, climb and generally the "basic stats list", then secondary variables gain in importance.

There are plenty of types that had good performance, but were deemed failures because of poor reliability. The Lancaster was based on the less succesfull Manchester.

Ease of handling certainly is an important factor next to the basic stats.

You might not rate ease of maintenance, or reliability high, but if your in service rate drops quickly, you won't get the benefit of increased performance translated to tactical or possibly strategic advantage.

Yes, it depends on the discussion.

If you want a basic "measurement contest", you'll do fine without secondary considerations, if you want a significant answer, you'll try to go beyond and perhaps come up with different answers.

Otherwise just open Jane's and look for the fastest fighter packing a good punch and you'll have your winner.