It is an interesting debate really, because historically the Germans broke massive ground with their tanks which provided a perfect mix of mobility and protection. While the Soviets did have a sloped turret design with their tanks that provided protection benefits, they were often very vulnerable. (Lack of radios for communication for the T-34/76) and many weaknesses around the tracks/wheels, and their small-ish- caliber guns)
The Panther was extremely fast, powerful, and well armored for its time, it is lauded as the "First Modern MBT". They even were issued Infrared Optics to work in tandem with the Uhu-Infrared Spotlight Halftrack(Eye of Sauron - Halftrack) For nigh-time operations.
I'd be more than willing to say that the overdrive could use a rework if German tanks could make more efficient use of their guns. The most important thing being that their tanks had high velocity guns that allowed them to fire at extreme ranges and still maintain powerful penetration against other armored vehicles.
As it stands most German tanks don't hit or do reliable damage unless they are at punching distance.. many don't even fire unless they are in punching distance.
What? The Panther has a good range (50, more than the vast majority of actual tanks), good penetration, and good damage. It can slug it out with any allied tank save an IS-2 or ISU. Tigers also penetrate anything save IS-2s with ease, and Elefants, KT and Jagdtiger pen absolutely everything no questions asked. That's not counting the PaK 43, or the often overlooked but awesome Jagdpanzer 4, or hell even the Puma can be used against most medium tanks thanks to its range, speed, and easy getaway options. If there's one thing Axis
doesn't lack its potent AT power on their tanks. Only the Jackson is more potent, but it pays for it by being made of wet tissue paper and having no escape mechanisms whatsoever, weaknesses Axis tanks do not have.