1957 Messerschmitt KR200

This is what you get when you declare war on the whole world – and lose!

The Messerschmitt Kabinenroller (Cabin Scooter), is a three- wheeled car designed by aircraft engineer Fritz Fend and produced in the factory of the German aircraft manufacturer Messerschmitt from 1955 to 1964. It was one of the many unusual microcars launched in Europe following WWII to fill a need for transportation that was inexpensive to buy and economical to operate.

The KR200 was 51 lb. heavier than the KR175, the first generation model, but had a 6 mph higher top speed. The Sachs 2-stroke single-cylinder 191 cc engine topped out at 62 mph and 10 horsepower. An “Export” package included a two-tone paint scheme, painted hubcaps, a fully trimmed interior, a heater, and a clock.

Reflecting Fritz Fend’s aeronautical background, it was built as a two-seater with an aircraft-like cockpit. The passenger sits behind the driver with a bubble canopy on the majority of Kabinenrollers built. Steering was conceptually motorcycle-like, using handlebars. A way to travel in reverse was introduced with the KR200, which was accomplished by reversing the rotation direction of the engine. It was possible to shift through all 4 gears in reverse.

Other technical data for the KR200 are:
Wheelbase – 80 inches
Weight – 463 lbs
Fuel tank capacity – 3 gallons (of which 0.5 gallons
is reserved)
Fuel consumption – 100 mpg