Germany vs Germany — 1955 vs 1955
| Isetta 300 Microcar | KR200 Kabinenroller | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 13 hp | 10 hp |
| Torque | 13 lb-ft | 10 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 298 cc | 191 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 45.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 53 mph | 56 mph |
| Weight | 772 lbs | 507 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 1,500 mm | 2,030 mm |
| Length | 2,285 mm | 2,820 mm |
| Units Produced | 161,728 | 41,190 |
| Original MSRP | $1,048 | $995 |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
The 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering higher top speed, lighter weight, greater rarity. The 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar counters with more power, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar and 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller stand as two of the most notable Microcar cars from Post-war. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar producing 13 hp and the 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller delivering 10 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW Isetta 300 uses a Single-cylinder 4-stroke displacing 298 cc, while the Messerschmitt KR200 relies on a Single-cylinder 2-stroke with 191 cc. The 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller claims a higher top speed at 56 mph compared to 53 mph. The Messerschmitt KR200 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 265 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 41,190 units built, the 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller is considerably scarcer than the BMW Isetta 300's 161,728 examples.