Hobby Master Archive

Ferdinand Porsche produced an amphibious version of the Kubelwagen (Type 82) known as Type 128. The vehicle was too large and unstable so he reduced it in size to create the Type 166 Schwimmwagen. The Type 166 originally replaced reconnaissance unit motorcycle- sidecars but also became a scout and staff car. Amphibious and all-wheel drive made the Type 166 a vehicle for mud, snow, sand or water. The rear-mounted three-blade propeller was lowered and self-engaged to linkage from the engine. The Type 166 was the most produced amphibious vehicle in history.

The Großdeutschland (Greater Germany) Division was an elite German combat unit that spent late 1943 fighting a withdrawal from the eastern Ukraine. The Division was sent from hot spot to hot spot trying to strengthen German positions against advancing Soviet forces. Because of this constant movement to help other units the Großdeutschland earned the nickname “die Feuerwehr” (the Fire Brigade). Early in March 1944 the Soviets launched major assaults forcing the Germans and Großdeutschland further westward and by the end of March 1944 found itself well into Romania.

Specifications for the VW Type 166 Schwimmwagen Production Period - 1941 to 1944 Number Produced - 15,584 Engine - 4 cylinder air-cooled 1,131cc 25 hp Speed Cross Country Gear (4-wheel drive) - 10 km/h 1st Gear -17 km/h 2nd Gear - 32 km/h 3rd Gear - 50 km/h 4th Gear - 80 km/h On-Road Reverse - 9 km/h Maximum Speed In Still Water - 10 km/h with propeller @ 2,300 rpm Electrical System - 6 volt Dimensions Length - 3,825 mm Width - 1,480 mm Height - 1,615 mm Weight Dry - 910 kg Maximum - 1,345 kg

Hobby Master 1/48 Ground Power Series HG1501 Schwimmwagen Type 166 “Gross Deutschland”, Soviet Union, March 1944 (mustard yellow and olive green color)

True 1/48 scale.

Professionally painted.

Great attention to detail.

All markings are Tampoed (pad applied).

Rubber wheels roll.

Extremely heavy metal with a minimum of plastic.

Highly collectable.