Chassis No. 8125

Engine No. 1549273

The Messerschmitt Kabinenroller was a series of microcars produced from 1953 to 1964, initially by Messerschmitt and later by Fahrzeug-und Maschinenbau GmbH (FMR). Designed by Fritz Fend, the Kabinenroller featured tandem seating and a distinctive bubble canopy. Four models were built on a monocoque platform: the three-wheeled Messerschmitt KR175, KR200, KR201, and the four-wheeled FMR Tg500 "Tiger."

Fend, who had previously designed the Fend Flitzer invalid carriage, recognized the demand for a small personal vehicle. In 1952, he approached Messerschmitt, who agreed to produce Fend's design after a brief period of aircraft manufacturing restrictions. The first model, the KR175, began production in 1953. The Kabinenroller was a unique product of its time, combining the practicality of a scooter with the protection of a cabin. It was marketed as an affordable, small, personal transport option, a truly unique offering in the immediate post-war era as Germany was working to mobilize its population once again.

Formerly part of the acclaimed Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum, this 1954 Messerschmitt KR175 has benefited from extensive restoration work performed under prior ownership. Likely sourced directly from Germany, this car still wears period-correct German license plates and is a well-appointed model with the accessory rear luggage rack and the twin gauge instrument cluster. Finished in a period-appropriate light grey accented with a red lower body, it was competitively shown with the Antique Automobile Club of America at their 2008 National Spring Meet and the 2008 Hershey Fall Meet. Today, the car has developed a light but charming patina from use, but it still presents remarkably well. Born from aircraft design, this 1954 Messerschmitt KR175 is a cheerful example of a rarely seen early design of Germany's return to postwar individualized mobilization.