It’s a Ford-based Opel rocket launcher and it potentially encountered resistance from Buick M18 Hellcats during World War II. Talk about words colliding.
Specifically, this is an Opel Maultier Panzerwerfer 42, measuring in at 19 feet, 5 inches and is based on a Ford V3000S 4X2 3-ton. The Ford was produced by the company’s German subsidiary during the time period.
It’s a heavy thing if that wasn’t apparent. The Opel Maultier Panzerwerfer 42 weighs in at a not so feathery seven tons when loaded with ammunition. The rocket launcher was able to move on its own accord and is encased in 8-mm thick armor plating. 6-mm armor is present on the top and bottom.
The Opel rocket launcher is sans engine and transmission, but it’s still a pretty awesome piece of history. Auctions America will see the rocket launcher off on May 12, 2017, where it’s expected to fetch up to $50,000.
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Or maybe a GM Allison powered P-38 shot at it.