Lot 0320: Leopard 1 A6 120 mm MBT (Germany)

When the West German Army joined NATO in 1955, it was equipped primarily with equipment made by the U.S., France and Great Britain. Among the first tanks used by the West German Army were American built M47's and M48's. While decent tanks for their time, they were already beginning to be outclassed by vehicles of other nations.

In 1956, a requirement for a new tank for the West German Army was put forth. By September 1965, the first Leopard 1 was delivered and without any doubt a Master peace of German Post War Tank technology. The hull design was basally split up in two compartments being the engine at the rear and the crew compartment in the front separated by a fireproof bulkhead.

The tank has a crew of 4-persons. The driver is in the front on the right (with infrared image-intensification for night driving); the commander and gunner on the right and the loader on the left.

The Leopard 1 was a fast, well-armed main battle tank. It was not as heavily armored as it's contemporaries such as the British Chieftain or American M60 series, but it was faster and more reliable. It formed the backbone of the West German Panzer Forces throughout the 1960s and 1970s until it began to be replaced by the more powerful but also far heavier Leopard II.

The Leopard 1 was built in several variants, each of which underwent various modifications during their service. The initial Leopard 1 was built with a welded hull and cast turret. It was upgraded to the 1A1 in 1971 by adding a thermal sleeve and stabilization system to the main armament. Add on turret armor created the Leopard 1A1A1. The addition of digital radios and the PZB200 low-light television system created the Leopard 1A1A4. The Leopard 1 A5 was the final German Army production version.

A Further developed Leopard 1 designated the A6 entered the prototype stage, which had an L44 120mm smoothbore main gun and additional turret armour. The project ended in 1985 as the Leopard 2 with its L44 main gun was in heavy production.

This example is equipped as an A6 and comes with a dummy gun. A very impressive machine.

Comes in nice running order.

Collecting military vehicles like the Leopard 1 A6 can is an absolute fascinating hobby for Military Vehicle Enthusiasts. Here are a few reasons why someone might consider buying it as a collector:

1. Historical Interest: The Leopard 1 is a renowned main battle tank with a rich history. It is very special to also note that due to the conflict in Ukraine, the Leopard 1 MBT can enjoy enormous, renewed interest so Leopard 1 Collectors may be drawn to its historical significance, especially if it served in notable conflicts or has unique modifications.
2. Rarity: Some collectors are attracted to rare or limited-production military vehicles. If the Leopard 1 A6 is not widely available, it could be an appealing addition to a collection.
3. Passion for Military History: Collectors with a deep interest in military history often seek out vehicles like the Leopard 1 A6 to better understand and preserve the past.
4. Display and Education: Many collectors use their vehicles for educational purposes, such as museum exhibits or historical reenactments, to share their passion with others.

Note:

Collecting military vehicles can be expensive, and there may be legal and logistical challenges involved. Additionally, some countries have regulations governing the ownership and use of military vehicles, so it's crucial to research and comply with local laws and regulations.

If you are interested we are more than happy to inform you.

SPECIFICATION
Model:                                     Main Battle Tank Leopard 1 A6

Manufacturer:                         KMW (Krauss-Maffei Wegmann) Germany

Weight:                                   Combat Weight:        46.73 tons (42.4 mt)

Ground Pressure:      12.52 psi (0.88 kg/cm²)

Crew:                                       4 (commander, gunner, loader, driver)

Engine:                                                MTU (Motoren- und Turbinenunion) Model: MB 838 CA

M500;

10-cylinder, 37.4 liters, multi-fuel engine.

819 hp (610 kW) at 2.200 RPM resulting in 19.6 hp per ton

Transmission:                          ZF 4HP250 (Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen) model with 4 forward and 2 reverse gears (semi-automatic)

Suspension:                            Independent torsion bars

Speed:                                    65 km/h (40.4 mph); Currently limited to 50 km/h

Range road/cross-country: 600/450 km (373/280 mi);

Dimensions:                            Length overall:            31.3 ft               (9.54 m)

Length hull:                23.26 ft            (7.09 m)

Width overall:                        11.06 ft             (3.37 m)

Height overall:                        8.56 ft (2.61 m)

Ground clearance:                 17.3 in   (440 mm)

Armament:                             Main:                           155 mm Dummy Gun (tube) and breach

Secondary:                No secondary armament included

Date of Delivery:                     1971                             Serial 6448-x and B2470 built in 1975

REMARKS
Location:         Wichita Kansas

                               USA.

Condition:       Nice restoration and running vehicle.

Permits:           In case of export out of the USA an export permit will be required.

ESTIMATE VALUE

Between € 250.000 and € 350.000