VIIB v VIIC

[GreyBeard]

So what's the advantage of the C over the B? Is it worth the extra renown?

[Incubus]

The C gets a lot more upgrades. It also allows you to mount the VIIC type 4 tower (U-flak). If you want a good, well-rounded sub that you could use till the end of the war, coupled with great dive times and hardware, the VIIC is a good choice.

[Zero Niner]

How about the variants of the VIIC, like the VIIC/41 and VIIC/42? Worth the renown, or better to stick with the stock VIIC?

[Incubus]

That I am curious about as well. I'm guessing you get progressively better upgrades. I'd say if you have the rewnown to spare, go for it.

[Albrecht Von Hesse]

Not sure about SHIII itself, but this shows info on all the type VII boats:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_VII_U-boat

[Incubus]

Judging by the data in the wiki article, I would hazard a guess that the '41 and '42 models have increased operational depths and possibly more durable hulls.

[Dietrich]

Have a look at:

http://www.communitymanuals.com/shiii/index.php?title=Submarines

It comes down to personal preference on what you consider more important. I personally prefer a VIIC over the VIIB and stick with it until the VIIC/42 is available (as it can take two extra external torpedoes and has faster speeds).