Messerschmitt KR201 (1958)BlueBreezeWiki, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Messerschmitt KR201 Roadster

1958 — Germany

Post-War (1946-1959)RoadsterEconomy / CompactGermanConvertibleRear EngineLimited ProductionMicro Cars & Bubble CarsOpen-Top DrivingAir-Cooled Legends
Engine191 cc Single-cylinder two-stroke
Power10 hp
Torque10 lb-ft
Transmission4-speed sequential
DrivetrainRWD
Body StyleMicrocar Roadster
Weight507 lbs
Top Speed56 mph
Production200 units
BrakesDrum / Drum
SuspensionTrailing arms, coil springs / Swing axle, coil springs

Messerschmitt KR201 Roadster

The Messerschmitt KR201 Roadster represents the sportiest expression of post-war German microcar ingenuity. With its fighter-plane inspired tandem seating and removable roof panels, it offered open-air motoring in the most compact package imaginable. The 191cc single-cylinder two-stroke engine produced just 10 horsepower, but with a weight of only 230 kg, it could reach 90 km/h. Only 200 Roadster variants were produced, making them extremely rare.

$35,000 – $75,000

Original Roadster models are extremely rare and valuable. Many have been converted from standard KR201s, so verify authenticity through chassis numbers and factory records. Check for structural integrity in the monocoque chassis. Two-stroke engines are simple but require proper oil-fuel mixture. Expect to pay $35,000-75,000 for authentic examples.

The KR201 Roadster was built from 1958-1964 with approximately 200 examples produced. It featured removable roof panels and a folding windscreen. Messerschmitt aircraft company built these under license from Fritz Fend.