The Argus Motoren Gesellschaft, founded in Germany in 1902, produced its first aircraft engine in 1906, possibly the first such German engine. During the years 1910 to 1913, most of the practical flying experience in Germany was gained with Argus engines. The first models naturally followed motor car engine construction, and were not especially noted for reliability or low specific weight. However, Argus engines were so refined by 1912 that practically all German airplanes were equipped with them.

During World War I, Argus was occupied full time in supplying German war office contracts, building the 89.5 kW (120 hp) Type As II and the Type As III in large numbers. Manufacturing licenses were issued to other firms such as Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nurnberg, Adam Opel A.G., Gasmotorenfabrik Deutz, Guldner-Aschaffenburg, Stoewer and Schweizerische Lokomotivfabrik Wintherthur.

The Argus Type As III DZ powered the Hannover CL II and CL IIIa escort and ground attack aircraft during World War I.

Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.

Object Details

Date

Circa 1916-1917

Country of Origin

Germany

Type

PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary

Manufacturer

Argus Motoren Gesellschaft

Physical Description

Type: Reciprocating, six cylinders, in-line, water-cooled
Power rating: 134 kW (180 hp) at 1,350 rpm
Displacement: 15.9 L (970 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 145 mm (5.72 in.) x 760 mm (6.3 in.)
Weight: 195 kg (430 lb)

Dimensions

Length 200.7 cm (79 in.), Width 73.7 cm (29 in.), Height 127 cm (50 in.)

Materials

Aluminum
Steel
Rubber
Copper Alloy
Paint
Fabric

Inventory Number

A19610133000

Credit Line

Gift of the U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio

Data Source

National Air and Space Museum

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