Messerschmitt Bf 108, Old Warden 2007 ©Nigel Key
ROLE
Sport / Touring aircraft.
FIRST FLIGHT
June 1934.
The Bf 108 is a German single engine four seat aircraft designed by Willy Messerschmitt in the 1930’s.
The prototype, designated M37, is of all metal construction and powered by a Hirth HM 8U V-8 engine, producing 247 hp with a three bladed propeller.
It has a low fuel consumption rate and good flight characteristics making it a popular choice for record flights.
The Bf 108B flew in 1935 and was powered by an Argus AS 10 V-8 engine with a two-bladed variable pitch propeller. The rear window is quadrant shaped rather than rectangular and the tailskid was replaced by a tailwheel.
The Bf 108 was given the nickname ‘Taifun’, which means ‘Typhoon’ in German, by her pilot Elly Beinhorn a name which was adopted for the aircraft.
PRODUCTION
The Messerschmitt Bf 108 was produced from 1934, with 885 built.
ENGINE
Argus AS 10C, producing 240 hp.
ARMAMENT
None.
The original aircraft was designed for competition in the 4th Challenge International de Tourisme in 1934.
The Messerschmitt Bf 108 entered service with the Luftwaffe during World War II where it was mainly used as a personnel transport and liaison aircraft.
| Crew - 1 |
| Passengers - up to 3 |
| Length - 27ft 2.5in (8.29m) |
| Wingspan - 34ft 10in (10.62m) |
| Height - 7ft 6.5in (2.3m) |
| Empty Weight - 1,941lb (880kg) |
| Max. Weight - 2,987lb (1,355kg) |
| Max. Speed - 186 mph (300 km/h) |
| Range - 621 miles (1000 km) |
