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 Schwimmwagen Type 166 was the most produced amphibious car of all time. Although it was produced for amphibious duty it actually saw more use on land than in water. The Germans realized its usefulness as a recon vehicle because its flat shell and 4-wheel drive worked well in the mud on the Eastern Front so this is where the vast majority of these vehicles were sent. This particular vehicle probably belonged to the Stabs Kompanie of StugAbt.203 that spent from June 1941 until October 1944 on the Eastern Front.

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 HG1503 Schwimmwagen Type 166 WH-1381 549, Eastern Front, WWII

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.