I agree with you Skbird PE was the best tank sim GAME of its time and while a classic itīs still a charming old lady trying hard to keep up with young chicks.
SB is the classic of tank SIMs and will probably remain for the years to come.
I would not recommend PE to somebody new to tanksims unless you really want to feel like it is to play an oldie a bit like those driving vintage cars
SB I would only recommend if you are really interested in becoming a hard core, serious tank simmer to justify the investment in time and money otherwise I say SF because its affordable and while imperfect the best, up-to-date WWII tank sim GAME currently available.