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Coming to auction at Wilton House for the Concours Des Legendes, 19-21 June, full catalogue now online.
1962 Messerschmitt KR201 Roadster
Chassis Number: 78887
Registration Number: 8558 MD
Recorded Mileage: 8, 039 miles
Highly collectible UK-delivered example
In current ownership since 1976
After the Second World War, Messerschmitt, temporarily not allowed to manufacture aircraft, had turned its resources to producing other commodities. In 1952, Fend approached Messerschmitt with the idea of manufacturing small motor vehicles based on his Fend Flitzer invalid carriage. The first to enter production at Messerschmitt's Regensburg factory was the KR175 (the title Kabinenroller means literally "scooter with cabin"). The new KR200 replaced the KR175 in 1955, using the same basic frame but with changes to the bodywork (notably wheel cutouts in the front fenders) and an improved canopy design. The KR200 was otherwise an almost total redesign of the model. In 1957 the KR200 Kabrio model was released, featuring a cloth convertible top and fixed side window frames. This was followed by the KR201 Roadster, without window frames, and using a folding cloth top, a windscreen, and removable side curtains. A Sport Roadster was later offered with no top and a fixed canopy so the driver would have to climb in and out at the top of the car. Production was heavily reduced in 1962 and ceased altogether in 1964 due to a fall in sales over a few years. The demand for basic economy transport in Germany had diminished as the German economy boomed. A similar situation developed in the United Kingdom, where sales were particularly affected by the increasing popularity of the Mini.
This original UK delivered KR201 Roadster was first registered in August of 1962, finding its way into current ownership in 1976. Purchased as a project the Messerschmitt was restored by our vendor, an aircraft engineer, in the late 1970s, and has since resided in a small collection alongside other interesting period sportscars and motorcycles. With its older restoration now nicely mellowed, the Messerschmitt presents smartly overall, and starts on the button. A video showing the car being started is available upon request.
In recent years Messerschmitts have become highly sought after in the collectors car market, and we are sure after a little light recommissioning this exceptionally rare example will prove to provide huge amounts of fun for the next custodian. The Messerschmitt comes with a UK V5c and older buff log book.
Estimate: £12, 000 - £18, 000
