Fw-190 vs A6M2 Zero

One variable, are the pilots aware of the other aircraft's performance levels. If a 190 pilot attacks an A6M with the same lack of knowledge US and Commonwealth pilots did in the early stages of the war, chances are the Fw would get pasted. When a pilot doesn't know any better, they tend to want to stay and get into a furball, which in this case would be fatal for the 190 pilot.

 

One of the things allied pilots were told, never dogfight with a zero. On manuverability and speed I'd go for a zero, but on the other hand I'd say a Butcher Bird because of it's superior firepower and ruggedness. But either way both fighters with veteran pilots are just as lethal.