Ettore Bugatti designed the prototype of this engine in France during World War I. The U.S. Government's Bolling Commission, established to acquire European military aeronautical technology that could be built in America, purchased it because of its high performance potential and ability to mount a 37 mm cannon that could fire through the propeller hub. Duesenberg Motors was selected to produce the engine.
Engineer Charles B. King and his team made significant changes to correct technical problems and make the engine suitable for U.S. production methods. Renamed the King-Bugatti, it passed its 50-hour military test in October 1918. Production was just beginning when the war ended. Duesenberg manufactured about 40 King-Bugattis by early 1919. None are known to have powered a U.S. aircraft.
Display Status
This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
1919
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Reciprocating & Rotary
Designer
Charles B. King
Ettore Bugatti
Manufacturer
Duesenberg Motors Corporation
Physical Description
Type: Reciprocating, 16 cylinders, U-type, liquid cooled
Power rating: 306 kW (410 hp) at 2,000 rpm
Displacement: 24.3 L (1,484 cu in)
Bore and Stroke: 110 mm (4.3 in.) x 160 mm (6.3 in.)
Weight (dry): 583 kg (1,286 lb)
Dimensions
Length 112.4 cm (44.25 in.), Width 63 cm (24.8 in.), Height 82 cm (32.28 in.) (all dimensions approximate)
Inventory Number
A19200007000
Credit Line
On Loan from the War Department, Air Service, Washington, D.C.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Open Access (CCO)
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