1961 Messerschmitt KR200

Registration No: 117 UYM
Chassis No: 77451
MOT: Exempt

• Subject to a full bodywork restoration by the current vendor
• Offered with a collection of photographs of the restoration
• Offered from long term ownership
• A unique opportunity for bubble car aficionados everywhere

Introduced in 1953 as the 'fend', after its co-designer Fritz Fend, the KR175 Kabinenroller (scooter with cabin) was soon 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 62mph. Available in the UK from 1955 onwards, production ceased in 1964 after some 30,000 KR200s had been built.

Interest in 'micro cars' has been on the rise for some time, of which many view the tandem seat Messerschmitts as the cream of the crop. This delightful KR200 originally arrived in the UK via rail through Germany and Belgium. Becoming well known in club circles during its early days, ‘117 UYM’ was then off the road for some forty years. Subsequently treated to a comprehensive restoration using only original and club-supplied parts, the Messerschmitt had its engine and transmission overhauled by a club specialist and its body reconfigured as a Convertible. The vendor informs us that the Messerschmitt is now 'very presentable and drives really well', and is offering it complete with a copy of the original sales invoice, club certificate of origin and numerous restoration photographs. K200s are powered by a 191cc Fichtel & Sachs single-cylinder two stroke engine which, thanks to the model's low weight and effective aerodynamics, will propel the little two-seater to c.60mph - which it can attain both forwards and backwards!

For more information, please contact:
Luke Hipkiss
luke.hipkiss@handh.co.uk
07886398226