'Brutus'.

[Ferry_vO]

'Brutus' is the name of an experiment by some mad Germans, who mated a 1906 American-LaFrance chassis to a 1925 BMW engine. Why is this mad? Because they've used a BMW VI V12 aircraft engine with 47 liters (almosat 2,800 cu. in.!) and with a maximum output of 750 hp!
It was used in aircraft like the Dornier Wal, Do-17, Heinkel He-51 and He-70.
Don't know when it was built exactly, but the project was founded by Hermann Layher, the current director of the Sinsheim museum.

This weekend this car was in Holland for the bi-annual Concours d'elegance:

(That guy on the right came with the engine.. j/k!)


...And here's how it sounds: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwOomfZ-hfM

 

[Ferry_vO]

Some detail shots:

Took a lot of photos today, but I need some time to sort and edit, so expect more the next few days!

 

[wombat666]

If the car is in 'original' condition I just love it to pieces!!
That patina of age is a joy to behold.
I'm off to find out a bit more about 'Brutus'.
Great photos Ferry.
And a PS:Splashed out on my own two wheeled 'Brutus' last week, an Aprilia RSV4, more MotoGP than Superbike!!
One day I might grow up but I don't want to!!!

Voila!!!

"An extraordinary vehicle that was constructed in the Auto & Technik MUSEUM SINSHEIM‘s workshops under the project name “Brutus“, is - like the Maybach special racing car - also following the tradition of the Blitzen-Benz. After WW I many aircraft engines were available since Germany was not allowed to own aircraft. These engines were installed on old undercarriages and used to perform races. An undercarriage with chaindrive of 1908 was being used as a basis for the “Brutus“ project. A 12-cylinder aircraft engine with 46 liters displacement and a constant performance of 500 hp at 1500 rpm, that was located in Spain by our club member Hans Dittes, was mounted on top. The attraction of this vehicle is not least due to the fact that it is going to reach a speed of far beyond 100 km/h at about 800 rpm only. After several years of hard work the vehicle was completed. It already was presented in action at many events."

 

[Collin]

There was another car dating to the 60's called "The Beast", which had a Merlin engine in it and a Rolls Royce grill.
Its still around and living in Spain minus the grill now. Though I think "Brutus" out does it in the looks department.

regards Collin:ernae:

 

[stansdds]

Now that is a race car!

 

[Wing_Z]

Very interesting pics...that front end does look more like steam loco than car.
Love this one, assume one shouldn't stand too close

You'd have to be pretty confident about your vehicle's scarcity/interest level, to pitch at a Concours meeting with blistered paint!
Look forward to the rest of your day out.

 

[Ferry_vO]

If the car is in 'original' condition I just love it to pieces!!
That patina of age is a joy to behold.

The parts are vintage, but I doubt the entire car is ten years old. Still fun to see and hear!

BTW You know what they say Wombat: You don't stop playing because you get old, but you get old when you stop playing!