Developed from the DB-600 engine first produced in November 1937, the DB-600 series was used primarily in Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Bf 110 fighters. In 1939, a Messerschmitt 209V1, using a DB-605ARJ engine, set a world's record of 755 km/hr (469.22 mph) which was not broken by a propeller driven aircraft until 1969.
Inverted mounting provided better visibility, lower center of gravity, and improved maintenance access. In the Bf 109, a cannon was mounted between the engine banks and fired through a propeller hub. The DB-601A in the Bf 109E, used fuel injection instead of a carburetor, a great asset in combat since the engine did not cut out under negative g forces. This engine was also used in some Heinkel 111s and license-built versions in the Macchi MC.202 Folgore and several Japanese aircraft.
Of the 74,896 DB 600 series engines, 42,405 DB 605 engines were produced, more than any other model.
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
1943
Country of Origin
Germany
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Manufacturer
Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, inverted V, 12 cylinders, liquid-cooled, geared drive
Power rating: 1,100 kW (1,475 hp) at 2,800 rpm
Displacement: 35.7 L (2,179 cu in.)
Bore and Stroke: 154 mm (6.1 in.) x 160 mm (6.3 in.)
Weight: 745 kg (1,642 lb)
Dimensions
Overall: 3 ft. 3 13/16 in. × 2 ft. 4 5/16 in. × 5 ft. 8 1/2 in., 1642lb. (101.1 × 71.9 × 174cm, 744.8kg)
Materials
Metal
Inventory Number
A19670086000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Air Force Museum.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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