An LP 329 forward control variant
November 1956 saw the introduction of the new heavy-duty L 326-series conventional trucks, which were originally intended as export vehicles but began sales in Germany in spring 1957. Also in 1957 the 329-series conventional and forward control series were revealed, as well as a forward control variant of the 326. The new vehicles were the successors to the L 315 range, which had been in production under that name since 1954, and another four years before that as the L 6600. 


With a payload of 6.5 tonnes and gross weight of 12, the L 329 was designed to optimise carrying capacity under the new "Seebohm" regulations which significantly restricted truck lengths and maximum weights, as an attempt to strengthen the German rail transport network over road transport. One year later an all-wheel drive LAK tipper variant was introduced. Initially the models were powered by the 8.3 litre six-cylinder OM 315 diesel which produced 145hp, however in 1958 this was changed to the 172 hp version of the 10.8 litre six-cylinder diesel OM 326. Manufacturing of the L 329 lasted until 1959, but due to the popularity of the all-wheel drive version, the LAK 329 continued production with the OM 326 engine until three years later in 1962.

L 326 with fridge body

The L 326, however, was only manufactured for two years (1956-58). The maximum gross weight was rated at 16 tonnes, with a payload of 8.5. The model was driven by the 10.8 litre OM 326 six-cylinder diesel engine which produced 192-200 horsepower. Pictured on the right is an L 326 equipped with a refrigerated body supplied by Blumenhardt.

Both the 326 and 329 were available as either conventional long-bonneted variants or forward control cab over engines, and as flatbeds, tippers, tractors, or chassis cabs.

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