The Messerschmitt KR200 is a three-wheeled bubble car designed by the aircraft engineer, Fritz Fend and produced in the factory of the German manufacturer from 1955 to 1964. Messerschmitt, temporarily not allowed to manufacture aircrafts, had turned its resources to producing other commodities and, in 1952, Fend approached Messerschmitt with the idea of manufacturing small motor vehicles. The first of Fend's vehicles to enter production was the KR175, the title 'Kabinenroller' means 'scooter with cabin'. The narrow body and corresponding low frontal area was achieved with tandem seating which also allowed the body to taper like an aircraft fuselage; the fuel consumption of the car was reported to be 87mpg with a top speed of 65mph - if you were brave enough. Production of the KR200 was heavily reduced in 1962 and ceased in 1964 following consistent drops in sales for a number of years. The KR200 ran on a 191cc Fichtel & Sachs air-cooled, single cylinder, two-stroke engine positioned in front of the rear wheel. The engine had two sets of contact points and, to reverse, the engine was stopped, then restarted, going backwards.

Presented here in wonderful condition, this KR200 is fitted with the distinctive 'bubble top' and has been subject to a sympathetic restoration. Finished in Fire Engine Red with a distinctive interior in black leather and snakeskin with red piping, the history file contains an owner's manual and a lovely period photo of WOU 177 lined up with two other KR200s with consecutive number plates, presumably at the UK distributors in 1959. Fitted with a luggage rack, this really is a super example of the Messerschmitt KR200 that would grace any garage.

Supplied with a V5C registration document and history file with many article clippings and photos from just after its restoration as well as a handbook. You'll be very popular wherever you go if you own one of these 1950's classic three wheelers. Consigned by Will Penrose

Lot details
Year: 1959
Make: Messerschmitt
Model: KR200
Registration: WOU 177
Chassis No: 73101
Engine No: 3033721
Odometer: 48,302

* Sympathetically restored
* Bubble top