Pinzgauer

   The Pinzgauer range was developed by Steyr-Daimler-Puch of Austria as the successor to the Haflinger range of 4x4 vehicles. The first 4x4 Pinzgauer, powered by a 2.5-liter petrol engine, was produced in 1965 and ever since then the Pinzgauer series has been a major Steyr-Daimler-Puch product. The 4x4 vehicles were soon joined by a 6x6 version and by 1985 over 20 000 had been produced, nearly for all military users. The Pinzgauers first entered military service with Austria in 1973.

   From 1983 onwards the petrol-engined Pinzgauers were joined by turbocharged diesel-engined versions, the so called Turbo D range, which in most respects were overall improvements on the earlier models. They are known as 716 series (4x4) and 718 series (6x6) and have longer wheelbases, disc brakes and increased fuel capacities. Other features such as automatic level control systems, that enable the superstructure to rise or fall to suit the load involved also became available.

   In all their forms the Pinzgauers have been produced in a bewildering array of models with hard or soft-tops, equipped for carrying either passengers or cargo. Some versions have provision to carry weapon systems or communication shelters. There are also command versions and some examples were used to carry 20-mm anti-aircraft guns. Ambulance versions with special panel bodies have been manufactured.

   All Pinzgauers have an excellent cross-country performance and are particularly favored by Austrian Army alpine units.

   An experimental petrol-engined 8x8 version was produced in prototype form but was not placed in production.

   Since 1986 the original Pinzgauer was replaced in production by improved Pinzgauer 2.