jdhogg
The F-4E came in two models...the 'hard wing' or non-slatted version, and the model with wing slats.
Preference varied amongst F-4 pilots for the two models. The slatted version had a better slow speed turn capability but was slower to accelerate.
Either version was in the 'energy' class of fighters when compared to its typical Soviet adversary (MiG-17, 19, 21).
Properly flown as an 'energy' fighter, the F-4E was proven in several conflicts (Vietnam and Middle East) to be an effective weapons platform.
Andy