SEAT 600

vs

Messerschmitt KR200

Spain vs Germany — 1957 vs 1955

SEAT 600 (1957)
Messerschmitt KR200 (1955)
Specifications
600 DKR200 Kabinenroller
Horsepower25 hp10 hp
Torque32 lb-ft10 lb-ft
Engine Size767 cc191 cc
0-60 mph50.0 sec45.0 sec
Top Speed62 mph56 mph
¼ Mile30.0 sec
Weight1,290 lbs507 lbs
Wheelbase2,000 mm2,030 mm
Length3,285 mm2,820 mm
Units Produced797,31941,190
Original MSRP$995
Value (Excellent)$25,000$45,000
Collectibility7/107/10
Rarity3/107/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1957 SEAT 600 D brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, greater rarity. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Spain and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1957 SEAT 600 D versus 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 SEAT 600 D producing 25 hp and the 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller delivering 10 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the SEAT 600 uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 767 cc, while the Messerschmitt KR200 relies on a Single-cylinder 2-stroke with 191 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller edges ahead at 45.0 seconds versus 50.0 seconds. The Messerschmitt KR200 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 783 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 41,190 units built, the 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller is considerably scarcer than the SEAT 600's 797,319 examples. On the collector market, the 1955 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller commands a significant premium over the 1957 SEAT 600 D, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.