1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller

The Tupelo Automobile Museum Auction|27 April 2019, 10:00 CDT|The Tupelo Automobile Museum

1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller
Chassis no. 55522

191cc Fichtel & Sachs Air-Cooled Two-Stroke Single-Cylinder Engine
10bhp at 5,000rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission (Both Forward and Reverse)
3-Wheel Hydraulic Independent Suspension
Cable-Operated Mechanical Drum Brakes

*From the first year of production of the more powerful KR200
*Perfect for tight parking spaces and invading local French car shows
*A nicely preserved example of the iconic German microcar

THE MESSERSCHMITT K200

In an era when American cars were becoming longer, lower, and wider, Germany gave us the Messerschmitt KR200. The aircraft manufacturer built the kabinenroller ("scooter with cabin") in response from being banned from building planes after World War II. Initially designed by aeronautical engineer Fritz Fend as an "invalid carriage", he noticed able-bodied folks seeking basic transportation and approached Messerschmitt to build the three-wheeler.

Starting with the Messerschmitt KR175 in 1953, the improved 1955 KR200 featured an enlarged 191cc Fichtel & Sachs air-cooled single-cylinder two-stroke motor in front of the rear wheels. Reflecting its aircraft roots, left and right turns were handled by a steering bar that was operated by pushing instead of turning. Seating position was in tandem, one in front of the other, giving the Messerschmitt a low center of gravity and great handling. Entry for both passengers was through an acrylic hinged canopy, although Kabrio and Roadster models substituted a tonneau cover. Messerschmitt was permitted to build planes again in 1956, thereby losing interest in kabinenroller production. The factory was sold to Fend, who formed FMR and continued to produce this and subsequent bubble cars through 1964.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This example of the iconic Messerschmitt microcar joined the collection at the beginning of August 1994. Purchased from St. Louis, Missouri, little history is known about this three-wheeler. Finished in cream over burgundy sill and fender accents, it appears to be in relatively well-preserved condition. Up front, the former mounting points of a bumper guard that has long since departed the car are present. Opening the iconic bubble top that is reminiscent of a Me262 cockpit reveals the interior, which is nicely trimmed to match the exterior in burgundy vinyl with cream piping.

It is understood that the car has not been run in some time, so some degree of recommissioning will be required prior to taking it out to invade the local French restaurant.

Next time you have the urge to get a Big Gulp at the 7-Eleven, why not ditch the Smart car and go in style in this KR200?

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