A superbly restored, correctly presented example.

SPECIFICATIONS

Manufacturer: Regensberger Stahl und Metallbau

Origin: Regensburg, Germany

Production: 30,286

Motor: Fichtel & Sachs 2-stroke

Displacement: 191 cc

Power: 9.7 hp

Length: 9 ft. 3 in.

Identification No. 58873

In addition to its tapered fuselage body and iconic “bubble” canopy covering the cockpit, a principal distinctive feature of the Messerschmitt Kabinenroller is its tandem seating. Necessary because of the fuselage-like construction of the vehicle, it also concentrated the mass of the laden car along the center longitudinal axis. The driver’s seat is centered, giving maximum forward and side visibility. Behind it is a wider seat in two sections. This can accommodate either one or two passengers, depending on their size.

With its low center of gravity and the wide stance of the front wheels, the Kabinenroller is exceptionally stable for such a small and light vehicle. Benefits include excellent handling, which is very economical for a car still able to achieve highway speeds. A top speed of about 65 mph can be achieved, with fuel consumption of up to 87 mpg. The low frontal area minimizes wind resistance, while the central driver location makes it equally adapted to left- or right-hand drive countries.

This Messerschmitt KR 200 is a superb example of the early Kabinenroller. It has the rectangular outside mirrors mounted on the canopy and the Messerschmitt “bird” badge on the nose. Light yellow in color, it has double-sided whitewall tires on all wheels, with full chrome covers. All brightwork is of the highest caliber. The interior is the early pattern, with a pleated side panel and a “sweep” highlight in white on black. Seats are black with white piping. The instrument panel is the early type, with the center cutout for a radio. The mechanical detail is excellent as well, with the engine and drive unit being exceptionally sanitary, making this certainly one of the nicest Kabinenrollers available on the market today, and certainly one of the finest restored examples in existence.