Pz.Kpf.W. III Ausf. M

[5-cm-KwK L/60]

Between September 1942 and March 1943 the Ausf. M was built. Distinguishing features from the earlier Ausf. J/L were a 20mm thicker front armor of superstructure and mantlet as well as an improved exhaust system which allowed the tanks to cross water up to a depth of 1,3m instead of the previous 0,8m. The eye slits on the sides as well as the chassis bailouts were removed. All Ausf. M got Schürzen and smoke dischargers.