Tamiya Plastic Model Kit
German Schwimmwagen Type 166 (1/35)
The Schwimmwagen Type 166 was developed to meet the unique challenges of European terrain, where rivers, wetlands and poor roads demanded exceptional mobility. Based on the Ferdinand Porsche designed Kübelwagen, this amphibious vehicle became one of the most distinctive utility vehicles of the Second World War. This 1/35 scale kit represents a variant fitted with wide tyres and additional equipment, expanding on Tamiya’s long established Schwimmwagen range.
The model faithfully captures the compact form and functional design of the Type 166, from its boat like hull to the rear mounted propeller used for water travel. Suspension and engine details are realistically reproduced, while newly tooled parts allow the vehicle to be built with the wider 200mm tyres that offered improved off road performance compared to earlier narrow tyre versions.
- 1/35 scale plastic model kit
- Finished dimensions 113mm x 42mm
- Accurate depiction of the Schwimmwagen Type 166 with wide tyres
- Detailed suspension and 4 cylinder petrol engine
- Newly moulded parts for 200mm wide tyres and wheels
- MG34 machine gun included
- Panzerfaust 30 anti tank weapon and Kar.98k rifle included
- Optional windshield with or without cover
- Positionable canteens and helmet
- Two new figures included, driver and officer
- Decals for German Army and Luftwaffe number plates
- Uniform insignia decals for cap, sleeve and collar
This kit offers an engaging build that combines mechanical detail with strong visual interest. Once completed, the Schwimmwagen makes an excellent addition to WWII dioramas, particularly those set in river crossings, rear areas or mixed terrain environments.
History
The Schwimmwagen Type 166 was developed by the German Wehrmacht to provide a lightweight amphibious vehicle capable of operating across Europe’s river rich landscapes. Powered by a four cylinder petrol engine producing around 25 horsepower, it could reach speeds of up to 80km/h on land.
For water crossings, a manually lowered three bladed propeller provided propulsion at speeds of up to 10km/h. While wartime material shortages meant many vehicles were equipped with narrow tyres, versions fitted with wider 200mm tyres offered superior traction and off road capability. The Schwimmwagen remained in widespread service throughout the war and became one of the most recognisable German utility vehicles of the period.
