design magazine

Article by Eleftheria Athanasopoulou
Posted on March 04th, 2013
in Technology & Messerschmitt KR 201 Roadster

One of the smallest convertible cars ever produced is the 1957 Messerschmitt KR 201 Roadster. Built by the aircraft manufacturer of the same name, in the frugal era of post-war Europe, this little gem, which boasts 87 mpg, in its heyday broke all speed records of its class in every trial.

Powered by a rear engine, it evolved from a previous model, the 200, which had a fixed bubble roof. This model proved to be at a disadvantage in warmer climates so the 201 was produced and marketed with great success until the early 1960s.One of the few remaining cars of this limited edition model was recently lovingly restored to its former glory, complete with polished chrome trims and painted in its customary candy red paint and fitted out with a faux snakeskin interior. It was then put up for auction at the Bruce Weiner Microcar Auction in Madison, Georgia where it was sold for the impressive sum of $103,300!