First demonstrated in 1934, it powered a number of competitors at the Challenge International de Tourisme that year, including the Messerschmitt Bf 108.

Argus produced it in small numbers as German manufacturers like Messerschmitt preferring V-8 alternatives for their aircraft.

The Argus As 17 was an inverted six cylinder aircraft engine in the 200 horsepower (149 kW) class that was first demonstrated in 1934.

[3] It was used to power a small number of German aircraft in the late 1930s, notably three entries to the Challenge International de Tourisme 1934, the Fieseler Fi 97, Klemm Kl 36 and Messerschmitt Bf 108.

[6] A more developed engine, the As 17B, rated at 220 hp (164 kW), was used to power the seventh Bf 108A prototype.