Hmm, so many opinions. I'll keep to FS1&2 ships simply cause Ive only played 8 Mods.
I generally find it hard to choose 1 single ship for each class though

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Overall, based on design and performance. (and personal preference. duh)
Fighter: (probably) GTF Ulysses
Bomber: GTB Medusa
Cruiser: GTC Aeolus - its flak has been growing on me lately.
Corvette: GTCv Deimos
Destroyer: GTD Orion - I never quite liked the 'brick' like appearence, but it did grow on me a bit. The appearance of an Orion, did bring me

of pride (being in the GTA and GTVA and all

)
(Obvious that Im a Terran kinda guy?)
Going to regret naming the Ulysses later, Im no good at choosing a favorite fighter.
As for odd looking ships, I think that the Cannon-ships. However odd (not naming..., GTD Hecate). They looked apart of the GTA/GTVA development line, Im still not quite used to the GTD Raynor yet (probably cause Ive only played one mod with it). The colour seemed a bit light, and most GT ships are build more upwards, it was more flat...
Vasudan ships, I find slightly more interesting with their designs. They seem really odd, but a little graceful sometimes. (sometimes)
Shivan vessels, perfect enemy. I did enjoy the the colour scheme that was used, the blacks and reds. And the designs for a first time player proved distracting, unknown and hostile. Though I thought the beams were a bit to evil red, they do hurt...
Anyway, (please) ignore my opinions cause im a noob

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