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 first elements of the sPzAbt.101 arrived in Normandy on June 12, 1944, with 45 Tiger II’s and numerous other types of vehicles including Schwimmwagen Type 166 WH-1361 549. With 6 days ashore the Allies had managed to break out from the beach heads and by the end of June 1944 the sPzAbt.101 had lost 1/3 of their tanks as well as most of its support vehicles. By the end of August the remaining tanks had been lost.

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 HG1504 Schwimmwagen Type 166 WH-1361 549, 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.