1957 Heinkel Kabine Micro-car
Registration no. 846 UYG
Chassis no. 350073

Perhaps the biggest mystery concerning Ernest Heinkel's Kabine Cruiser is how its creator got away with producing a design outwardly so similar to the Isetta. Launched in 1956, the Heinkel used a 175cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine originally developed for a motor scooter and, while closely resembling the Isetta, was both lighter and roomier, even providing children's seats in the rear. A four-speed gearbox made the Heinkel nippy in traffic while a simplified design of front-opening door avoided the complication of its rival's jointed steering column. Larger-engined (204cc and 198cc) models were offered later, as well as four-wheeled versions, convertibles and vans. After around 6,000 had been made, production was discontinued in Germany in 1958 but continued in other countries, Ireland included, where approximately 8,000 were built before the rights transferred to Trojan in the UK in 1961.

This Heinkel Kabine was brought to the UK from Ireland in 2010 and restored in 2013/2014 by the previous owner, while in 2016 the vendor had the engine rebuilt. Described by the private vendor as in generally very good condition, the car is offered with sundry restoration invoices and a V5C Registration Certificate.