The 1944 Volkswagen Type 166 Schwimmwagen, an amphibious vehicle from World War II, is currently showcased at the DFW Car & Toy Museum in Fort Worth. The vehicle, finished in beige and designed for both land and water use, was developed from the Kübelwagen by Porsche engineer Erwin Komenda. Approximately 14,200 units were produced between 1942 and 1944.
“There’s nothing else quite like the Schwimmwagen—it’s mechanical ingenuity with a purpose,” said Ron Sturgeon, founder of the DFW Car & Toy Museum. “From the battlefield to the museum floor, it tells a story of resourcefulness and engineering brilliance.”
This particular Schwimmwagen was refurbished in Germany during the 1980s and features a four-speed manual transmission with a two-speed transfer case and locking front and rear differentials. Power comes from an air-cooled flat-four engine reported to be a 36-horsepower long block from the 1950s. The odometer reads approximately 27,000 kilometers (about 17,000 miles). For water travel, it uses a retractable propeller connected directly to the engine crankshaft; steering is managed by front wheels that function as rudders.
Inside, the cabin has removable wooden floor panels and steel-frame seats with tan vinyl covers for up to four occupants. Additional military features include rear portal axles and an elevated air intake resembling a snorkel above the engine.
The Schwimmwagen is part of more than 200 vehicles on display within the Ron Sturgeon Collection at DFW Car & Toy Museum. The museum recently relocated to North Fort Worth at 2550 McMillan Parkway and offers free parking and admission.