Microcars have a huge cult following, the models of the 1950s/60s ‘Bubble Car’ era in particular.
One of the most popular among collectors is the Heinkel Kabine, developed by a German aircraft maker and essentially a helicopter cockpit with wheels, hence the unusual glass area and rounded front end styling. It’s a quirky thing to look at and a hilarious thing to drive.
It was introduced in 1956, but to get around import legislation in certain markets Heinkel worked with partners in markets around the world to build them. As a result, Heinkels were made in places as diverse as Buenos Aires, Dundalk and, er… Croydon.
This is one of the Surrey-made models – a 1959 Trojan 200, built under licence by the Trojan Motor Company in 1959. Originally a UK car, it left to join a collection overseas and was reimported (and re-registered) in 1983. It’s a smart but older restoration that has spent much of its life (including with its current owner) in private microcar collections.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
Exported and reimported – declared manufactured 1959
Re-registered in UK in 1983
UK V5C
Age-related non-transferable registration
MOT and tax exempt
Rally plaques and plates from events car has been shown at
Affectionately known as “Maureen” by past two owners
Plated as a tricycle, so can be driven with a motorbike licence
THE INTERIOR
Two-seater
Front bench with access via hinged front door
Left-hand drive
Storage nets
Luggage area behind rear seats
Three-spoke steering wheel
“Trojan” steering wheel boss
Heinkel logo in instrument binnacle
Good overall condition
One small nick in seat fabric
THE EXTERIOR
Smart respray in dark red/maroon
Solid underneath with original floor
Exterior finish is largely good, with no signs of structural rust
Very slight bubbling behind one wheel arch
Original steel wheels with good period tyres
Older repaint with a handful of minor marks and chips, but nothing of any significance
All original chrome, trim and badges present and correct
Chrome luggage rack
Some pitting to chrome around rear light lenses
Very good overall condition
THE MECHANICS
198cc single-cylinder four-stroke
Starts and runs
Four-speed transmission with reverse
Vendor reports that car will benefit from a new battery as existing one loses charge overnight
Otherwise said to be mechanically good and great fun to drive
SUMMARY
Here is a very rare opportunity to buy one of the most unusual bubble cars of the breed – a genuine Croydon-built Trojan in sympathetically restored but largely original condition.
It’s a comical thing to drive, looks great and is sold in good working order – a classic that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face as well as on the face of anyone else who encounters it out and about.
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.
