Small cars, microcars and scooters - affordable mobility with innovative approaches
The fifties and early sixties were the heyday of the unconventional and versatile small car. They were particularly popular in Germany.
With four and three wheels, the single wheel usually at the rear and sometimes fitted with twin tires, two and four seats, passengers sitting side by side or one behind the other, doors at the side, front or even with a glass dome, the concepts were varied and creative. What they all had in common, however, was the aim of combining low purchase and operating costs at motorcycle level with the comfort elements of an automobile, i.e. weather protection, storage space, heating and several seats. Even today, it is still impressive how much utility could be created on a minimal footprint.
Well-known examples include the BMW Isetta, Fuldamobil, Goggomobil, Heinkel (cabin), Kleinschnittger, Messerschmitt, Brütsch, Maico, Spatz and Zündapp Janus, to name but a few. Engine size and power were usually around 200 to 500 cm3 and 10 to 15 hp, which led to acceptable to impressive driving performance and, above all, low fuel consumption of around 3 to 5 liters per 100 km.
Even today, a ride in these small cars is still something special and recommended to every classic car fan. We recently had the opportunity to take a seat in a Messerschmitt KR 200 and have documented our impressions in an article.
