Since the creation of the first car to the present day, a huge number of different models have been produced, and even today manufacturers do not slow down. Every year, a variety of new items are offered to the attention of buyers - more powerful, more technological, more stylish. In the history of the automotive industry there were different models - some beautiful, some not very, and some cars of the last century even cause a smile with their comical appearance.
1. Messerschmitt KR200 (1955-1964)
The name Messerschmitt is strongly associated with aviation technology - the company created fighters and bombers for the German army. After the defeat of Germany in World War II and the ban on aircraft production, the company switched to the production of motor vehicles. The KR200 was built on the basis of the Fend Flitzer motorized stroller, and boarding was carried out through a hinged door, like an aircraft fuselage. The model had three wheels, two seats placed one behind the other, and a steering wheel similar to a bicycle.
Interesting fact from Novate.ru: To announce its model and prove its reliability, the company put the Messerschmitt KR200 on the racetrack in 1955. The engine has been modified for racing and the body has been designed with aerodynamics in mind. However, other stuffing (steering, brakes and suspension) was the same as on the production models. The race was very successful - the car broke 22 world speed records in its class.
2. BMW Isetta (1955-1962)
In the history of the legendary automobile concern there was also such an unusual model as the BMW Isetta with a funny appearance, like a bubble. When the company fell into disrepair after the end of World War II, it was Izetta's production that helped to improve the financial situation. The car was produced in Italy and BMW bought the rights to manufacture it. The car was designed for two people and had only one door located on the side of the hood, and the steering wheel was extended along with the door.
3. Peel P50 (1963-1964, 2010-present)
This baby is considered the smallest car in the world. It is designed for only one person and a maximum of one bag with things, its miniature size no longer allows. The car's transmission does not have a reverse gear, so when driving into a narrow dead end, all that remains is to exit and turn it manually. Moreover, this will not cause any difficulties, since the car weighs only 59 kg. It's hard to believe, but the car really amazes with its microscopic dimensions. A total of 47 copies were produced in the 60s, but in our time only 26 original models have survived. In 2010, the British company resumed production of the Peel P50.
Cognitive fact from Novate.ru: In 2016, at Sotheby’s auction, one of the lots was a 1964 Peel P50. He went under the hammer for an amount of 176 thousand dollars, exceeding the declared initial cost 30 times.
4. Myers Motors NmG (1999-2003, 2005-present)
This fun car was designed for solo commuting or shopping. Outwardly, it is somewhat reminiscent of a shoe or a small bird. The original model was called the Corbin Sparrow and around 300 were built. After the bankruptcy of Corbin Motors in 2004, the production rights were acquired by Myers Motors, and the model was named NmG (No more Gas). The name can be translated as "No more gas", as well as gasoline, since the model is driven by an electric motor. Inside, the car is quite cozy - the seat is adjustable, the dashboard has power connectors for mobile devices and there is even a small trunk for storing purchases. The model did not receive wide distribution, probably because of its high cost, more than $ 30 thousand.
5. Bond Bug (1970-1974)
The two-seater British minicar was developed with an eye on the youth audience, which affected its appearance. The silhouette of the car was similar to sports cars with its very low profile and strong windshield slope. Despite its small size, each car was equipped with a spare wheel. The color also reflected a youth-friendly ¬– all Bond Bugs were bright orange except for one small batch of 6 pieces. These machines were painted white for the Rothmans company, which used them to advertise their tobacco products. A total of 2,270 of these machines were produced.
6. Twike (1986-present)
Twike was developed by a group of Swiss students for the 1986 World's Fair in Vancouver, Canada. This is an interesting hybrid of a bicycle and an electric car - its electric motor is combined with a pedal drive. The vehicle is available with different battery sizes and can carry two people and a small load. So, Twike 5 with the smallest battery will travel 150-250 km on a single charge and can reach speeds of up to 120 km / h. The range of the electric muscle hybrid with the largest battery is 300-500 km, and the maximum speed is 190 km / h. And if you also pedal while driving, then the mileage without recharging increases and a toned physical form is a bonus. The passenger can also join fitness, pedals are also provided for him.
7. Diahatsu Midget (1957-1972, 1996-2002)
Not only personal vehicles, but also trucks were distinguished by their mini-sizes. The Japanese company Diahatsu released a three-wheeled single-seater truck in 1957. The original version had no door, but in the process of modernization a more powerful engine was installed, doors were added and the load capacity was increased from 300 to 350 kg. The second generation Midget II has already received 4 wheels.
The truck was used for courier delivery, bar owners for transporting barrels, and for moving around production halls. So, Diahatsu Midget batches were purchased for their factories by Boeing and Lockheed.
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