The Engine That Won World War II – Jay Leno’s Garage

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With 1390 hp, Jay demonstrates the power and engineering of the Merlin 1650-1 engine that was the heart of the P-51 Mustangs and the Lancaster bombers in World War II.

37 Comments

  1. ahhh, i have flown a P-51 Miss America when it belonged to Howie Keefe in the 70's…

  3. Bomber Command bombed at night so it was an evening meal and back for a kip before breakfast.

  4. Packard Merlins were built in the US by Packard for American P-51's. Rolls Royce Merlins were built in Britain for British aircraft.

  6. This had to be a labor of love for everyone that participated in the restoration. What a great sounding engine!!

    By-the-way, today’s comedians could take lessons from you and Carson. I gave up on the Tonight Show shortly after you left. Seems like most of them have taken the fun out of funny.

  7. AWESOME video Jay. I'd like to donate (free, gratis, no dinero) my 1937 Buick Century with original Straight 8 OHV engine and Tranny, etc. to your museum. My '37 was used for weddings and school proms until the day I parked it. I just don't have the time to enjoy it and bring it back to its former glory. I'd only donate it to you, someone that would once again bring it back to the condition it was in when I parked it. I'm very serious, and I'm only an hour away in Huntington Beach for one of your people to check it out. I am serious and you can contact me via the tel # on one of my websites, or call my cell listed below.
    p.s. IIRC, the Merlin was also used in the Supermarine Spitfire, but I'm sure you knew that.
    Cheers!
    Joe Brancato (714) 612-5956 Cell and WhatsApp

  8. Wow! Very cool Jay. Just curious if you've ever seen or heard the old, pre-turbine unlimited hydroplane race boats that ran these engines? They were awesome to see and hear. There are likely a few old salts out there that have some great insight.

  9. What that thing needs is a CHOKE. Don't see it scrambling to intercept a gaggle of 109's or 111's. (Taking forever to warm up).

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