MD80s when the same is not...........
any other jets,behave the same?Are there subtle differences between the same planes?
I do not have the privilege of flying 777s so I can not comment on that model.
I fly 737-NGs from my vantage point; provided the same model are compared at the same weight and density altitude then yes they do behave and fly the same. I am unable to tell the difference between one jet and another. I do have a “favorite” aircraft in the fleet, and think it “feels” great to fly but I suspect my evaluation is purely subjective and emotional.
If you try and compare different versions of the same jet, then no they are not and do not "fly" the same. The smaller lighter 737-700 will feel and fly quite differently than the 737-800 or -900.
I spent a dozen years flying the MD-80. That jet was unusual and I would say that two MD-80s built next to each other on the assembly line in a few years could feel and fly very differently, it was the strangest thing.
The MD-80 series jet manipulates its flight controls with a byzantine series of cables and trim tabs rather than hydraulic or fly by wire systems (affectionately knows as the Long Beach Cable Car {manufactured at Long Beach California}). Because the cables wear and stretch differently each aircraft develops it own unique feel. It was also by far the most difficult aircraft I have ever flown to get a smooth landing out of. Every time I thought I had it figured out, I would embarrass myself.