1957 Messerschmitt KR200 bubble car

Introduced in 1953 as the 'fend', after its co-designer Fritz Fend, the KR175 Kabinenroller (scooter with cabin) was soon been marketed under the more famous Messerschmitt name. The narrow body and corresponding low frontal area was achieved with tandem seating and handlebar controls which also allowed the body to taper like an aircraft fuselage. Powered by a two stroke 148cc Fichtel & Sachs engine that produced a modest 9bhp, the fuel consumption was reported to be 87mpg with a top speed of 55mph.

In 1955 an improved KR200 was introduced with a larger 191cc engine, revised bodywork, an improved turning circle and floor mounted accelerator and clutch. The tandem seating allowed centralised weight distribution irrespective of occupants, avoiding the flawed logic of the Isetta's lop sided engine arrangement, and providing the little tricycle with handling characteristics that outclassed its contemporaries.

Four forward and four reverse gears made for rapid progress in either direction with a top speed of 62 mph, if you were brave enough. Available in the UK from 1955 onwards production ceased in 1964 after some 30,000 KR200s had been made.

Interest in 'bubble cars' has been on the rise for some time, of which many view the tandem seat Messerschmitt's as the cream of the crop. This delightful KR200 was first registered in 1957, finished in Red with contrasting Red seating with White piping, fitted with a very rare fibre glass dome top and has a speedometer reading of 29442 miles. We are informed by the vendor that this particular model has recently been imported from South Africa, where it formed part of a private collection for many years and as such will require some sympathetic recommissioning.

This delightful micro car which appears to be in highly original condition and unmolested is being offered with a V5c, road tax and paperwork showing all import duties have been paid. According to records there are only 158 of these little cars on the road in the UK, this is a unique opportunity to buy into a very exclusive club.