`I think someone needs to correct this sentence: ``The first Griffon-engined Mk. XII flew on August 1942, but only five had reached service by the end of the year. This mark could exceed 450 mph (724 km/h) in level flight, and climb to an altitude of 30,000 feet (10 000 m)in under eight minutes.`` This is completely incorrect since the Spitfire Mk. XII had the earlier Griffon engine rated only at 1,735 hp and was designed as a low-altitude interceptor, which meant the top speed was just under 400 mph (circa 640 km/h). It was the Spitfire Mk. XIV with its 2,035 hp Griffon 60-series engine that had the 447 mph (720 km/h) top speed, which entered service in January 1944.  `