There are a few left-field cars that have developed a cult following in the classic market, and the 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 falls into that category. It is hard not to fall in love with its quirky styling and radical cabin layout, both of which are defining features. Our feature car presents beautifully, but the upgraded engine and a few other modifications have transformed it into a pint-sized pocket rocket. Its only need is a new home, with the seller listing the KR200 here on Facebook Marketplace in Seattle, Washington. The seller’s price of $40,000 is consistent with market expectations.

Europe was a very different place following World War II, and companies like Messerschmitt had to diversify to survive. Its bread and butter had been aircraft design and manufacturing, both of which were forbidden by the Allies. Therefore, the company turned its hand to motor vehicle production, building the Fritz Fend-designed KR200 from 1955 until 1964. Designed to mobilize the masses and stimulate the economy, these cars were small, cheap, and could seat two adults and a child while offering weather protection not available with alternatives like a motorcycle and sidecar. They fell out of favor as economic circumstances improved but are now highly sought by collectors. The seller describes this KR200 as a recent bare metal restoration, and its presentation is first-rate. The panels are straight, the White paint shines beautifully, and there is no rust to cause the buyer sleepless nights. The list of new parts includes an acrylic canopy, a glass windshield and side windows, and a range of trim items. It is clean and tidy, but there is an ace up its sleeve.

One of the most common criticisms of the KR200 is that despite its bubble top giving it a distinctive appearance and excellent visibility in all directions, it was also excellent at admitting unfiltered sunlight into these classics. Fresh air ventilation was poor, meaning that occupants often felt fairly roasted after more than a few minutes inside one of these cars on a sunny day. The seller has addressed this problem by modifying the Messerschmitt so its top can be removed, and a small windshield drops into place to offer driver protection. It is an inspired move that will undoubtedly increase the enjoyment provided by this classic.

The distinctive approach to vehicle design continued inside the KR200. The driver controlled the vehicle via a steering yoke, rather than a traditional wheel. It allowed seating for up to two adults and a small child, with the passenger seat located behind the driver’s in a tandem fashion. Rather disturbingly, the company’s sales literature suggested that the rear parcel shelf offered ideal accommodation for an infant or a baby. I can’t see any safety concerns with that idea! This car’s refurbishment included a retrim in traditional Red vinyl with White piping. It looks flawless, as do the carpet and painted surfaces. The build included a new wiring harness, but the seller states that the speedometer doesn’t currently work. That and the lack of a traditional shifter near the driver’s right knee are the first signs that this KR200 might be anything but mechanically original.

Messerschmitt released the KR200 powered by a two-stroke 191cc Fichtel & Sachs single-cylinder air-cooled engine, producing 10hp and 11 ft/lbs of torque. A four-speed manual transmission handled shifting duties, but with no reverse gear, Messerschmitt devised an ingenious system where the driver shut down the engine and refired it in the opposite direction to access what were effectively four reverse gears. Therefore, a KR200 could theoretically travel as fast backward as it could forward. I’ve never heard of anybody trying this, and I would probably stand back at a safe distance if an owner chose to do so. The interior’s lack of a shifter and inoperative speedometer are due to this KR200 being a bit of a hybrid hot rod. The original engine has made way for a 244cc Honda four-stroke powerplant that started life in a CH250 scooter. I suspect that the seller also utilized that motorcycle’s V-Matic automatic transmission, making the Messerschmitt more user-friendly. It should also be faster, with power booster from 10hp to 19hp. Purists won’t welcome the changes, but original parts to reverse the modifications are readily available if they wish to return this classic to its factory form. Although they don’t provide specific information, the seller gives the impression that this KR200 is a turnkey proposition that can be enjoyed immediately.

This 1957 Messerschmitt KR200 is an undeniably cool classic with an engine that should provide improved performance. The ability to remove the bubble top will undoubtedly appeal to potential buyers in sunny locations because they won’t find themselves slowly roasting on warm days. However, purists should have little trouble sourcing the correct mechanical components to return this KR200 to its factory form. Would you do that, or would you leave it as-is to enjoy the extra power and a genuine wind-in-the-hair motoring experience it offers?