1955 Messerschmitt KR200

Designer: Fritz Fend

Estimate:$28,000-$35,000

Chassis Number:Ky12160
Engine:250cc Honda Helix
Odometer shows: 5,000

Modern Honda Power
Automatic Transmission
Custom Roadster Coachwork

The Model: Some find it hard to believe that the little three wheel cabin scooter we know as the Messerschmitt is a product of the same company who provided the air power for Hitler in WWII. But it does indeed come from the same people that were only years before producing fighter planes for Germany's war effort. Not surprisingly, after the war the Allies politely asked the people at Messerschmitt to cease and desist all aircraft production. With no significant revenue stream, the company teamed up with Fritz Fend, also an aircraft engineer, to build what has become an icon in the micro car industry, the kabinenroller, or cabin scooter. The three wheeled scooter with a bubble top canopy design did have some fighter plane characteristics from the tail dragger era, in its own harmless way. While Messerschmitt did attach their name to the funny little scooter, a separate company called Regensburger Stahl- und Metallbau GmbH, was formed to take over manufacturing of the scooter.

The Car: While undeniably adorable, all Messerschmitt owners face one ultimate truth, they are utterly unusable. Between the impracticality of mixing fuel, and lack of power production from that fuel, Messerschmitts have been relegated to the corner of collections where they collect dust. One industrious owen fixed that problem once and for all. In a German and Japanese mash-up, the likes of which have not been seen since WWII, the original 2-stroker was replaced with a water cooled honda engine. Borrowed from a helix, along with the rear suspension and electronics, the new mill breathed new life into the little machine. Now capable of reaching 65 mph, this converted roadster is ready for the road. The robins egg blue paint is a testament to the miles of enjoyment this scooter has to offer. The finish is far from perfect but shines nicely, save the few spots that have been scuffed or scrapped out on the road. If you want to be the center of attention this is your chance. Raise your hand and ride off into the sunset in this one of a kind.