Fiat 500

vs

Messerschmitt KR200

Italy vs Germany — 1957 vs 1957

Fiat 500 (1957)
Messerschmitt KR200 (1957)
Specifications
500 Nuova 500KR200 Super
Horsepower18 hp10 hp
Torque21 lb-ft9 lb-ft
Engine Size499 cc191 cc
0-60 mph0.0 sec0.0 sec
Top Speed59 mph56 mph
¼ Mile0.0 sec0.0 sec
Wheelbase1,840 mm2,030 mm
Length2,970 mm2,820 mm
Units Produced3,893,29430,000
Value (Excellent)$35,000$65,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity3/107/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 offers more power, higher top speed, better value, while the 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 Super counters with quicker acceleration, greater rarity. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

When Italy engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 and 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 Super embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500 producing 18 hp and the 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 Super delivering 10 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Fiat 500 uses a Inline-2 OHV 4V displacing 499 cc, while the Messerschmitt KR200 relies on a Single-cylinder 2-stroke with 191 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 Super edges ahead at 0.0 seconds versus 0.0 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 30,000 units built, the 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 Super is considerably scarcer than the Fiat 500's 3,893,294 examples. On the collector market, the 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 Super commands a significant premium over the 1957 Fiat 500 Nuova 500, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.