For many years, Magirus-Deutz trucks were beloved not only for their excellent driving performance but also for their unmistakable, high-pitched engine sound. At PAX Group, the so-called “Magirus virus” spread quickly the company operated many different models over the years. This time, we’re spotlighting one of the lesser-known ones: the Magirus-Deutz Pluto 200 FL.

The Magirus-Deutz models were traditionally named after planets such as Mercury, Sirius, Uranus, Saturn and, in this case, Pluto. While other models looked large and rugged, the Pluto had a softer, more rounded design. It was introduced in 1963 after new transport regulations allowed for 38-ton combinations.

The Magirus-Deutz 200 FL was a forward-control truck (FL = Frontlenker) with 200 hp. Like all Magirus trucks built in Ulm, it featured the brand’s signature air-cooled engine. The Pluto trucks in service at PAX where the original badge on the grille was replaced with the company’s own logo were used for both light and medium-duty transport operations.