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.

Werfer-Brigade (launcher brigade) 8 was formed in March 1944 and on June 8th 1944 was ordered to Normandy as part of the German 7th Army to help stop the Allied invasion. After heavy losses in Normandy and in the Falaise Pocket the Werfer-Brigade was re- supplied and on October 28th, 1944 it was renamed the Volkswerfer-Brigade (People’s Launcher Brigade) 8. In December 1944 the Volkswerfer-Brigade 8 took part in the Battle of the Bulge. The 7th Army surrendered to U.S. 3rd Army on 8 May 1945.

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 HG1502 Schwimmwagen Type 166 VolksWerfer-Brigade 8, 1944 (desert yellow 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.