It's been a while, since I did this.
Anyway let's fry some brain cells!!!

Clue's. A record of 403 mph in 1954 was set that still stands, she also holds another record that still stands made in 1956.

Convair R3Y Tradewind?
I had originally looked at the Tradewind when the first post was published but dismissed it because of the shape of the cowling...

Well done Harry it is indeed.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Convair_R3Y_Tradewind
OOP'S forgot the Link

OK this weeks headache taken in 45.
US crew check out this cool Biplane??

First flight was in 1931, this aircraft also flew for the Axis forces??
Paraguay, also received 4.

No idea what it is. Any more hints?

Shoot... I know that photo, and I used to know the type- IIRC this one is a captured Italian or German example flown by a US squadron in the Med/North Africa. Sadly, I can't offer more than that...

The above aircraft is fitted with an Isotta Fraschini Asso 200 ??

Is it a Breda Ba 25?