1963 Messerschmitt KR200 Coupe

For 1955, Messerschmitt introduced an improved version of the KR-175, the KR-200. This had a 10.2 horsepower Fichtel and Sachs 191cc two-stroke engine, an improved suspension, and an improved canopy. To move the car in reverse, the engine was merely re-started in the other direction, which provided four speeds backward as well as forward. Messerschmitt would produce over 60,000 examples through 1964, by which time the European country's fortunes had improved, which meant micro-cars of this type were losing its popularity. By this point in history, Messerschmitt had returned to the aircraft business and lost interest in producing the kabinenrollers.

This well-restored KR-200 is painted in turquoise. The engine and chassis have been completely restored. There is a white interior with snakeskin upholstery and a two-stroke single-cylinder engine offering 10.2 horsepower.

In 2010, the car was offered for sale at the Sports & Classics of Monterey, presented by RM Auctions. It was estimated to sell for $35,000 - $45,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for $55,000 inclusive of the buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2010