The Panther had an excellent combination of firepower, mobility, and protection. The Panther proved to be deadly in open country and long range engagements against tanks like the T-34, but vulnerable in close quarters combat.

During its 22 months of service beginning in July 1943, Germany's Panther tank proved more than a formidable opponent for the superior numbers of Allied tanks and ground-attack aircraft amassed on both the Eastern and Western Fronts.

Nevertheless, the Panther was plagued with mechanical problems. The engine frequently overheated and suffered from connecting rod or bearing failures. Gasoline leaks from the fuel pump, as well as oil leaks from gaskets produced fires in the engine compartment. Transmission and final drive breakdowns were the most common and difficult to repair.

US soldiers with an abandoned German Panther tank in France, 1944

Damaged Panther medium tank PzKpfw. V.  Note the track is knocked off and the vehicle may be abandoned.  There is another Panther in the background

Damaged Panther medium tanks PzKpfw. V on rail cars

Destroyed Pzkpfw. V Panther.  There is a signifcant hold in the turret, the gun tube is destroyed, and something is written on the gun barrel, maybe a note by the capturing force?

Knocked out Panther Ausf. G near Čimêrr Czechoslovak 1945

German Panther tank burned out on the side of the road

German Panther tank that has been knocked out!

German Panther tank which has been knocked out being examined by US soldiers, somewhere in Germany, April 1945