In the Microcar world, the successful FMR Messerschmitt is up there amongst the best. It’s quirky aviation inspired charm was also a practical proposition for many in the 1950’s and ’60’s due to it’s tricycle taxation class, great fuel economy, and low centre of gravity handling.
Amazingly, the ’Electramatic’ system enables the engine to be quickly restarted to run in the opposite direction by pushing the key further into the ignition, enabling it to drive with four gears as fast backwards, as forward!.
This highly desirable Messerschmitt, or Kabinenroller (Cabin Scooter), is indeed a 3-wheeled rarity and appears to have been well cared for with a degree of refurbishment in more recent years. Featuring the all-weather ‘Kabrio’ folding soft-top, the vendor describes this example as “needing some fettling to make perfect” but is perfectly usable and ready to jump into and have some fun.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
First registered in the U.K. on the 2nd June 1961
Original buff log book present
V5 (in previous owner’s name)
Last (exempt) MOT (with no advisories) in June 2017 at 71,221 miles
Some older MOT’s
Exempt Tax renewed until 1st June 2023
Parts invoices
Wiring diagram
Bosch Dynastarter handbook
Two-stroke oil and mixture chart
Messerschmitt Owner’s Club magazines
This little gem originally lived in the Sheffield and Barnsley areas before travelling south to Bournemouth in 2013 where we believe it was restored by the third owner.
Checking out the accompanying paperwork, we see that some service items, electrical parts (including a complete new wiring harness), and a few cosmetic items were purchased from the Messerschmitt Owner’s Club from 2013 to 2015 (see photos). The body looks as though it may have been repainted at this time too, although we don’t have a record of this.
The fourth owner (and collector) acquired this KR200 on the 31st May 2016 and recently passed it on to the vendor.
THE INTERIOR
Great aviation heritage tandem cabin
Aircraft-style steering yoke
VDO speedometer, Smiths volt meter and clock
Period looking switchgear and warning lights
All electrical equipment said to function
Presentable vinyl upholstery
Good side trims and carpeting
THE EXTERIOR
Largely unmarked glossy red paintwork
Great bodywork with no known accident damage
Split by engine cover retaining clip
Presentable windows, lights, mirrors, trim and badges
Rubber seals look fine
Some damage to the hood
Chrome luggage rack and spare wheel
Structurally sound frame
Original painted 8” steel wheels and nice chrome hub caps
Older tyres with a good tread level
THE MECHANICS
Original 191cc Fichtel and Sachs two-stroke single-cylinder engine
10 hp with a top speed around 65 mph
4 forward and reverse gears
Direct and precise steering
Suspension and cable brakes said to operate effectively
Mechanically serviced by the vendor
The vendor reports that this Messerschmitt starts, runs and drives as it should with no obvious faults.
SUMMARY
Devotees will appreciate the simplicity and unadulterated enjoyment to be had from driving and ‘tinkering’ with these Microcar’s. With good club support, they also represent a sound investment, would make a great addition to any collection, and are guaranteed to attract welcome smiles from the passing public.
So why not step back in time and enjoy the delights of this well cared for Messerschmitt. It is in great all-round condition and is sure to put a smile on your face too.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
Car & Classic's secure payment system protects buyers and sellers. At the end of the auction, the winning bidder transfers payment into a third-party escrow account. Once the transfer of the vehicle is complete, both parties confirm they are happy with the sale and the money is released to the seller.
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1961 Messerschmitt KR200
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