1963 Heinkel Trojan Model 601 Microcar

• Right-hand drive, 3-wheel, Model 601 recently restored to a very high standard
• Superbly finished in Spartan Red with a factory-spec check cloth interior
• Single cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled engine offering 10bhp
• Four forward speed and reverse easy-change gearbox
• Has formed part of a small collection in recent years
• Active Owner’s Club; good parts availability
• A lightweight, British built microcar that presents a sophisticated alternative to the more common BMW Isettas

Perhaps the biggest mystery concerning Ernest Heinkel's 'Kabine Cruiser' is how its creator got away with producing a design outwardly so similar to BMW's Isetta. Launched in 1956, the Heinkel used a 175cc four-stroke, single-cylinder engine originally developed for a motor scooter and, whilst closely resembling the Isetta, was both lighter and roomier, even providing children's seats in the rear. The Heinkel featured a single front door, fixed steering column, and a canvas sunroof, the latter also functioning as an emergency exit. Unlike some of its competitors, the Heinkel also had a reverse gear, making it a much more practical proposition.

Production was discontinued in Germany in 1958 but continued in other countries, Ireland included, where around 8,000 were built before the worldwide marketing rights transferred to Trojan in the UK in 1961. Trojan had been manufacturers of unconventional light cars in the 1920s and 1930s, and the acquisition of the Heinkel, marketed as the Trojan 200, marked the company's return to motor manufacture after a break of 25 years. Three and four-wheeled versions were offered in both right and left-hand drive configurations. A little over 6,000 were built before production ceased in 1964 at the works summer shut-down. By this time, the cars had become very difficult to sell, and some were not registered until 1966. This is hardly surprising as according to Motor Cycle magazine in March 1963 a new Minivan, which was exempt from purchase tax, would have cost you £368 against a list price of £369 15s for a right-hand drive Trojan! 

On offer here is a fully restored Trojan 601 (3-wheeler, RHD) recently completed and superbly finished in Spartan Red with a very smart red check cloth interior to factory specification. An original home market example in superb condition throughout.

With its front opening door, fixed steering column and canvas sunroof, these delightful three-wheelers have seen a real resurgence of late probably due to their quirky styling, ease of maintenance and micro proportions. Powered by a single-cylinder, four-stroke, air-cooled 198cc engine with such modern features as swinging-arm rear suspension, rack and pinion steering and hydraulic brakes, the whole package is delightful and entertaining at the same time providing both driver and voyeur with a real fun factor! Having had little use since restoration this particular Trojan has formed part of a small collection in recent years which is currently being realigned to make space for future projects. The UK-based Heinkel Trojan Club provides support for owners and enthusiasts of Heinkel, Heinkel-Ireland and Trojan Bubble cars.

The epitome of a small but perfectly formed ‘Bubble car’ with its expansive canopy and ability to be a real giggle out on the road. Just what the doctor ordered!