1953–1955 Messerschmitt Kabinenroller KR175 Specs & Performance

The Messerschmitt KR175 was one of the most unusual vehicles of the postwar era, combining a tiny three-wheel layout with a tandem two-seat cabin and an aircraft-inspired enclosed body. Developed during a period when affordable personal transportation was in high demand, the KR175 reflected Fritz Fend’s innovative approach to lightweight mobility and retained a distinctive connection to Messerschmitt’s aviation heritage. Its narrow proportions, bubble-like canopy and extremely low weight made it unlike conventional cars, establishing the KR175 as an important example of Germany’s early microcar movement.

The 1953–1955 Messerschmitt KR175 uses a naturally aspirated 0.2-liter two-stroke single-cylinder engine producing 9 hp. A four-speed manual transmission drives the rear wheels, with the engine positioned at the rear and a top speed of 56 mph. With a curb weight of just 463 pounds, the KR175 emphasized simplicity, economy and lightweight construction rather than outright performance, while its two-seat tandem arrangement gave this tiny three-wheeler an unmistakable character.