Axis already has the same TD range and doctrinal better (Elephant/Jagdtiger). JPIV has 60 range and will win every 1vs1 TD duel because of better ROF and smaller target size and even more health at Vet2. It just struggles a little more versus the real allied heavies because of lower penetration values compared to allied TDs. A pair of JPIVs synergies very well if not too good with IR HT in picking off reckless enemy tanks/vehicles at the frontline. I use it a lot when playing OKW and always wondered why everybody is rushing for Panther.
Panther on the other side is a complete other design with lots of armor, speed and health. It already has 50 range. Do you want it to have 60 range without changing the other stats?
Beyond that nerfing allied recon mode an SU-85 sight where part of this discusion too.
The arguments are always the same. What you have written, looks good on paper, but doesn't play out in game.
-The panther is unwieldy to use, has a low ROF and usually is on half hp in the late game, due to the superior SU-85, USF Jackson or British Firefly initial shot at greater range. Hence why only P-IV is built.
-JP-IV has too low pen to do anything until vet, which it takes too long to reach.
-Tiger has the same problems, whilst being limited to one.
-The only option is to spam pak 40 as OST or hope you can capture AT guns as OKW.
Before you scream bias, I don't care about which faction I play, I play the factions I win the most with, that has led me to playing SOV>USF>OST>UKF>OKW.
When I play allies, I am confident in the late game. When I play axis, I never feel confident, early or late, unless I significantly outplay my opponent early and deny all fuel.