The BMW 801 was the first German high-performance, air-cooled radial engine of new design introduced after the start of World War II. Introduction of a cooling fan in the cowl nose opening, operating at approximately three times propeller speed and with internal baffles, made it possible to eliminate all external cowling enlargements. In most installations, the exhaust pipes were grouped to give ejector thrust, and reduced installed drag below that of an equivalent liquid-cooled engine.

The 801 incorporated an automatic two-speed, single-stage centrifugal supercharger, direct fuel injection, and single-lever operation of manifold pressure, engine speed, ignition timing, and blower speed. The 801A went into production in 1940 at 1,193 kW (1,600 shp). Later boosted models culminated in the TQ rated at 1,279 kW (1,715 shp) at 1,219 m (40,000 ft). Total production exceeded 61,000 engines.

The BMW 801 powered such aircraft such as the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 and Junkers Ju 388.

 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 October 31, 1944 Country of Origin Germany Type PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary Manufacturer BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke)
 Physical Description Type: Reciprocating, 14 cylinders, 2 rows, radial, supercharged, air cooled Power rating: 1,268 kW (1,700 hp) at 2,700 rpm Displacement: 41.8 L (2,550 cu in.) Bore and Stroke: 156 mm (6.14 in.) x 156 mm (6.14 in.) Weight: 880 kg (1,940 lb) Dimensions Diameter 132.1 cm (52 in.), Length 150.1 cm (59.1 in.)
 Materials Steel, Aluminum, Preservative coating, Paint
 Inventory Number A19670113000 Credit Line Found in the collection Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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