This paper discusses the mathematical properties of similar solutions of the boundary-layer equations in a compressible model fluid, under assumptions first introduced by Stewartson and by Li & Nagamatsu. Assuming a favourable pressure gradient and that backflow is not present, our results include (among other things) a rigorous proof that velocity overshoot occurs in the boundary layer if the wall is heated, and that this is true whether or not suction, blowing or slipping occurs at the wall; while, conversely, velocity overshoot does not occur when the wall is cooled and the amount of slipping at the wall is suitably restricted.