Hooniverse Asks- What Microcar Do You Really Really Want to Own?

Robert Emslie

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microcars

World War II was not only notable for the tragic loss of life and wanton destruction of historic cities, but also for the sheer volume of raw materials it consumed as it was waged. So much went into the making of the fabric of war that when the fighting ceased and the dust settled there wasn’t much left for rebuilding nations to kickstart their infrastructure.

Perhaps the only reason that the world’s economies did bounce back was due to the enactment of the Marshall Plan, which was devised by the US State Department, and infused a devastated Europe with needed cash and export entitlements. Another way that post-war Europe got back in its feet was through transportation- the movement of goods and people across the continent drove industries both new and old. And, due to materials shortages, many of those trips had to be made in tiny, fuel and materials efficient Microcars.

Of course, Microcars are not exclusively the property of post-war Europe, Japan too has had its share of tiny fare – Kei Cars as they are colloquially known – and serving primarily to be space efficient, a demand of so densely populated an island nation. The one thing that all Microcars do share is their cute and endearing nature. Frequently featuring fewer than four wheels, or the kind of bubble weather protection only imagined in Science Fiction, they more than made up for their torpid performance with kitschy cuteness. And boy, were they ever frugal on fuel.

With so many Microcars from which to choose; Italian, German, British, Japanese, and even American – more on that later – which one is your favorite? And more to the point, which Microcar would you like to own?

Image source: ChristineBerrie

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Robert Emslie

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126 responses to “Hooniverse Asks- What Microcar Do You Really Really Want to Own?”

  1. Alff Avatar
    Alff

    My answer has been the same for years … Lightburn Zeta Sports
    <img src="http://classiccarweekly.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/1964-lightburn-zeta-sports.jpg?w=500"&gt;

    Reply
    1. danleym Avatar
      danleym

      That car is facing the wrong direction. Looking at it I think I'm looking at the rear end, then I realize the lights are white and the steering wheel is on this side.

      Reply
      1. Alff Avatar
        Alff

        The nose sits higher than the rear, like an enthusiastic pup. Alas, so few were made half a world away that there's a very good chance I'll never see one in person.

        Reply
  2. Josh_Howard Avatar
    Josh_Howard

    Does a Kei car count? If so, a Suzuki Cappuccino. If not, probably a Morgan 3 wheeler.

    Reply
    1. Jeff Glucker Avatar
      Jeff Glucker

      There is a Suzuki Cappuccino in California, owned by a well-known auto journo.

      Reply
      1. Josh_Howard Avatar
        Josh_Howard

        SWOON 🙂

        Reply
      2. danleym Avatar
        danleym

        Isn't there also one in Atlanta in some random dude's living room?

        Reply
  3. wisc47 Avatar
    wisc47

    I love Kei cars, though this is my absolute favorite. The best part is, since it's so small you can actually close the gullwing doors…probably.
    <img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UIODXHfzfvg/Tg9ad_7Xb4I/AAAAAAAAABo/vig_QpnaoRM/s1600/AutozamAZ1.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. Jeff Glucker Avatar
      Jeff Glucker

      love it.

      Reply
  4. Garland Avatar
    Garland

    <img src="http://www.aronline.co.uk/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/02-1298568535.jpg&quot; width="600">
    This counts, right?

    Reply
    1. Jeff Glucker Avatar
      Jeff Glucker

      you're god damn right it does

      Reply
  5. smalleyxb122 Avatar
    smalleyxb122

    Berkeley.
    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/31/Berkeley_SA322_side_view.jpg/800px-Berkeley_SA322_side_view.jpg&quot; width="500/">

    Reply
    1. jbkjbk Avatar
      jbkjbk

      Seconding the Berkeley. Any model.

      Reply
  6. Raphael Orlove Avatar
    Raphael Orlove

    I want a Messerschmitt to roar around in so bad.

    Reply
  7. $kaycog Avatar
    $kaycog

    I think an Isetta would be a blast!
    <img src="http://stblogs.hotrod.com/files/2010/08/28686512-623×467.jpg"width="500"/&gt;

    Reply
    1. P161911 Avatar
      P161911

      Sounds like a good idea, but I think it needs a bigger engine.
      <img src="http://images46.fotki.com/v4/photos/1/12867/113337/Isettavi-vi.jpg"width=500&gt;

      Reply
      1. mdharrell Avatar
        mdharrell

        Ah, but that's not an Isetta. It's a 600.

        Reply
    2. smalleyxb122 Avatar
      smalleyxb122

      That recently sold for $92,000, when RM Auctions sold off the Bruce Weiner collection. I think the pre-auction estimate was $100k.

      Reply
      1. $kaycog Avatar
        $kaycog

        I guess I don't need a blown one. ;D

        Reply
  8. Maymar Avatar
    Maymar

    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/86/Honda_beat3.jpg&quot; width=500 /img>
    Because who's going to say no to Midship Amusement?
    <img src="http://media.caranddriver.com/images/03q4/267348/smart-roadster-photo-9327-s-429×262.jpg&quot; /img>
    That said, as much as I could easily see it's Fortwo brother gracing my driveway (since the early diesel models are getting close to beater money here in Canuckia), I'd dig one of these even more.

    Reply
    1. JayP2112 Avatar
      JayP2112

      About the time Smart wound down production of the Roadster, MG was in a mess. A group wanted to buy the MG brand and use the Roadster as a new MG- with a real engine and manual transmission.
      Imagine the Roadster with a stock Ecoboost engine. That would be a fun car.

      Reply
    2. Devin Avatar
      Devin

      There was a Beat at a nearby Honda dealer a few years ago, but I wasn't able to see if I fit in it. I've been keeping an eye out ever since.

      Reply
    3. Jay_Ramey Avatar
      Jay_Ramey

      Weirdly enough, I have seen both of these in the US, despite both being unregistrable.

      Reply
    4. Tomsk Avatar
      Tomsk

      I would pawn at least two nonessential organs for a Beat. They wouldn't necessarily be mine, mind you, but that's my offer.

      Reply
      1. Maymar Avatar
        Maymar

        Pawn one essential organ, I can provide an address to register it to, in exchange for getting to drive it a little when you have to bring it back once a year to renew the tags. This is a completely rational plan, trust me.

        Reply
  9. muthalovin Avatar
    muthalovin

    Precursor to the NSX, I believe:
    <img src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4153/5087554545_710f7c1d2b_z.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Mister X Avatar
      Mister X

      HA! I had an orange one of these, I got it as part of a sale of another vehicle, it was sort of a 'bonus'.
      I kept it at my auto repair shop and one Monday I arrived to see it tipped on it's side, so the mechanics and I rolled it back over, no worse for the wear.

      Reply
  10. Number_Six Avatar
    Number_Six

    Does the Volkswagen XL1 count? Because I think it's the mutt's nuts.
    <img src="http://www.myperfectautomobile.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/volkswagen-xl1.jpg&quot; />

    Reply
  11. P161911 Avatar
    P161911

    A little on the large side, but it is still under 1L, the Fiat 850 Spider
    <img src="http://www.classic-car-history.com/classic%20italian%20cars/fiat-850-pictures/1965-fiat-850-spider.jpg"width=500&gt;
    I had one as a project car. I never realized how easy it was to work on until I disassembled it when I ended up parting it out.

    Reply
    1. mauro Avatar
      mauro

      And it has the same headlights (both front and rear) of the Lamborghini Miura.
      <img src="http://img.tapatalk.com/d/13/02/19/edadazym.jpg&quot; width="600">

      Reply
  12. Kogashiwa Avatar
    Kogashiwa

    Gotta be the Messerschmidt.
    <img src="http://www.examiner.com/images/blog/wysiwyg/image/Messerschmitt-Mony.jpg"&gt;
    Of 軽自動車, give me a Subaru Rex Combi VX – supercharged three-valve twin, all wheel drive to handle the massive 53hp:
    <img src="http://bestcars.uol.com.br/carros/japcorei/antigos/rex-1988-combi-supercharger-vx.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
      Peter Tanshanomi

      I'd have to go with the "technically not a Messerschmitt" FMR Tg500 Tiger.
      <img src="http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4120/4795710955_9d872ca4b2.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
      1. jjd241 Avatar
        jjd241

        <img src="http://i.imgur.com/0bcH7TD.jpg&quot; title="Hosted by imgur.com" />

        Reply
  13. lost_and_found Avatar
    lost_and_found

    Trabant!
    <img src="http://hooniverse.info/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Trabant-Combi-700×525.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  14. OA5599 Avatar
    OA5599

    Fiat Topolino
    <img src="http://image.vwtrendsweb.com/f/9339096+w750+st0/0405vwt_13z+Fiat_Topolino+Front_View.jpg&quot; width=500>

    Reply
  15. bhtooefr Avatar
    bhtooefr

    A Messerschmitt KR200 would be nice, although I'd probably figure out a more modern engine.
    The original Volkswagen 1-Liter Auto concept, with a clutched smog pump (hook the smog pump to the kickdown switch, smog pump kicks in, and you can get more fuel), would be amazing, though.

    Reply
  16. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
    Peter Tanshanomi

    Does it have to be production?
    <img src="http://tanshanomi.com/temp/crater-raider-small.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
      Irishzombieman☆

      No. But it can't be a bathtub.

      Reply
      1. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
        Peter Tanshanomi

        The good news is that your insults just wash down the drain.
        <img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8168/6991182588_0f9c37531e.jpg"&gt;

        Reply
        1. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
          Irishzombieman☆

          Hope the drain's at the bottom end of the tub.
          /wink

          Reply
  17. Preludacris Avatar
    Preludacris

    I'd LOVE to bumble around in one of these things. Not small enough, you say? For a scale reference, those are ATV tires.
    <img src="http://mactownminitrucks.homestead.com/100_0504_op_745x558.jpg&quot; width="600">

    Reply
    1. P161911 Avatar
      P161911

      The idea of a kei truck seems great for a farm truck or something to bumble around on a large piece of property, but most of the ones I have seen for sale in the US are going for $5k+. For that kind of money I can get a used full size pick-up or even a Jeep that would be way more practical on all but the smallest trails.

      Reply
      1. Kogashiwa Avatar
        Kogashiwa

        There are quite a few around here (Manitoba). They're very practical for around town deliveries etc. Sure you can get a full size truck for the same money but you'll also be paying four times the fuel bill and if you don't need the capacity why would you?

        Reply
        1. P161911 Avatar
          P161911

          They aren't road legal here in the US. Off road use only. You would need a really big ranch for the fuel economy to make up for the more expensive and harder to find parts.
          I remember back in the 1990s my college had a few that the Plant Operations/maintenance guys used. They made sense there because they could easily be driven down the pedestrian paths.

          Reply
          1. ˏ♂ˊ mzs zsm msz esq Avatar
            ˏ♂ˊ mzs zsm msz esq

            25 year old ones are. '67 and older and I don't even have to get any inspection what so ever here in my county. Insurance would be the problem.

          2. ptschett Avatar
            ptschett

            Actually, in some US jurisdictions they are considered to be road legal. South Dakota allows kei trucks everywhere but the Interstates. North Dakota bans them from highways with speed limits over 65. In both the Dakotas they're considered to be an ATV, and both states allow some classes of ATV to be highway licensed.

      2. danleym Avatar
        danleym

        How about a kei truck sitting on rockwells and 44s with a 454 sitting in the bed driving everything?
        Crap, sorry, just realized I'm not on Pirate.

        Reply
        1. Tim Odell Avatar
          Tim Odell

          HAHAHAHHAHAH
          Oh, Pirate4x4. The well of welded diffs, 60s, rockwells, and square-tube driveshafts will never run dry.

          Reply
      3. Preludacris Avatar
        Preludacris

        That's kind of a -redacted- "V6 mustang" argument, isn't it? For $5k you could buy many different toys, but none offer this unique combination of great fuel economy, an enclosed cab, go-anywhere ability, and oddball appeal. Fullsize pickup truck instead? Meh, misses the point. I'd cross shop this with a Suzuki Samurai and an ATV.

        Reply
        1. P161911 Avatar
          P161911

          I was actually having this discussion with my dad. They are fixing up the old lake house and he wanted to get a vehicle up there to go up and down the hill to the dock. This is about a 100' elevation change over 300', probably over 1/4 mile round trip. There is a road there now and way back when we used to just drive the truck up and down the road. Now my dad is 67 and doesn't get around as good as he used to. He was looking for the cheapest option possible. We discussed Kei trucks, Jeeps/Samurai, John Deere Gator type vehicles/side by side ATVs, and full size or S-10/Ranger size trucks. The cheapest option came down to a full size or possibly Ranger size truck. The ability of an extended cab full size truck to carry 4+ adults put that in the lead. He has decided to put off any vehicle purchase for a while and just use his regular Dodge Ram truck.

          Reply
          1. Preludacris Avatar
            Preludacris

            That makes sense. If he already has a pickup, why mess around with another vehicle.

  18. SSurfer321 Avatar
    SSurfer321

    Tracked Kei Truck!
    <img src="http://www.pirate4x4.com/forum/attachments/side-sides/407244d1228616193-japanese-mini-trucks-climbertracks1.jpg"&gt;
    IMG from pirate4x4.com

    Reply
    1. Preludacris Avatar
      Preludacris

      I've been one-upped!
      <img src="http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_lvc3kvzcE31qiiqvc.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
      1. SSurfer321 Avatar
        SSurfer321

        My apologies as yours was not yet posted when I posted mine.
        Great minds think alike!

        Reply
        1. Preludacris Avatar
          Preludacris

          No apologies needed for posting something awesome!

          Reply
  19. Vavon Avatar
    Vavon

    An Austin Mini Cooper S or a Renault Twizy!
    <img src="http://www.club-alsace-ve.fr/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/renault-twizy.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  20. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
    Peter Tanshanomi

    Takara Modern Times. I love the formality of it; it's like an electric tuxedo.
    <img src="http://www.electrifyingtimes.com/takara.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
      Irishzombieman☆

      "electric tuxedo"
      Damn, those words are funny when they're sitting side by side.
      Sounds like some sort of gangster punishment. "Give him the electric tuxedo, Vinny. And the cement shoes."

      Reply
      1. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
        Peter Tanshanomi

        I think the electric tuxedo is how you keep him confined while mixing up the cement shoes.
        <img src="http://www.visualphotos.com/photo/2×4400807/businessman_tied_up_with_power_cord_x4ga3-157.jpg&quot; width="520">

        Reply
        1. ˏ♂ˊ mzs zsm msz esq Avatar
          ˏ♂ˊ mzs zsm msz esq

          It would be hard for him to mix the cement himself wrapped-up like that though.

          Reply
    2. bhtooefr Avatar
      bhtooefr

      Man, it looks like a miniature knockoff of the Rumpler Tropfenwagen:
      <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/00/Rumpler_Tropfenwagen.jpg/560px-Rumpler_Tropfenwagen.jpg&quot; />
      Which is not a microcar at all, but is delightfully WTF – one of the earliest streamlined cars, and it has a W6 engine – three banks of two cylinders each.

      Reply
  21. Garland Avatar
    Garland

    <img src="http://www.sub5zero.com/sites/default/files/uploads/2011/02/martin_stationette.jpg"&gt;
    I wouldn't mind having a Martin Stationette, either.

    Reply
  22. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
    Peter Tanshanomi

    What, what the hell am I thinking? ELEXCEED RS FTW!
    <img src="http://hooniverse.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/elexceed.jpg&quot; width="520">
    http://hooniverse.info/2012/07/23/nonsense-thy-nam…

    Reply
  23. stickmanonymous Avatar
    stickmanonymous

    <img src="http://i619.photobucket.com/albums/tt275/OscarVWFoX/ToyotaLand-CruiserHZJ79-1_24_8_2008_5_39_ljpg.png"&gt;
    Micro is relative.
    Compared to all the monstrous trucks I see around here, I think it qualifies.
    Image from bogotaracingteam

    Reply
    1. Preludacris Avatar
      Preludacris

      That's awesome. What is it?

      Reply
      1. stickmanonymous Avatar
        stickmanonymous

        Toyota Landcruiser 70 Series. Sold pretty much everywhere in the world except North America.
        GMC anything = Professional Grade?
        Landcruiser 70 Series = Warlord Grade.

        Reply
        1. Preludacris Avatar
          Preludacris

          I wonder… if anybody imports these things into Canada.

          Reply
          1. stickmanonymous Avatar
            stickmanonymous

            Sounds like we've got a solid business plan for an import business. Or not. Hey, we both like them, and we're both in BC. Close enough.
            I understand that some of the Saskatchewan potash mines use them in RHD, but they can't sell them as licensed vehicles when they're done, so they get cubed, crushed, or shredded. This may be apocryphal.

          2. Preludacris Avatar
            Preludacris

            I'm in. Profit margins should be pretty decent. Even plain old 'yota pickups sell for 1.5-2x the price of an equivalent Ranger around here.
            What's that? I need capital to start a business? Oh…

  24. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
    Irishzombieman☆

    Most recently, this sucker– the Daihatsu Midget II with the commercial cargo space, thanks to Preludacris and his Craigslist Crapshoot entry.
    <img src="http://images.craigslist.org/3n33K93H35G15H65Jed3ha3b5cb16baf7143e.jpg&quot; width=400>

    Reply
  25. mauro Avatar
    mauro

    What about a micro-commercial-vehicle with a scooter engine? Let me introduce you the Piaggio Ape. Available as a van, pickup or with a semi-trailer !
    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/13/Piaggio_Ape_Kasten.jpg&quot; width="600">
    <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/–aZtoQ3zCuc/Td6q5Xvcu5I/AAAAAAAAAXc/1qpb8ljaaGs/s1600/piaggio_ape1.jpg&quot; width="600">
    <img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3b3KdB8RJE/UOgeyM4QEOI/AAAAAAAACjQ/C4GdYkBE9g0/s1600/APE1_OTT.JPG&quot; width="600">
    <img src="http://www.adventuremedia4u.de/images/17apestoria.jpg&quot; width="600">
    Just watch this cool review !
    [youtube 8gdNKWdGIHY http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gdNKWdGIHY youtube]

    Reply
  26. discontinuuity Avatar
    discontinuuity

    This is a micro-car, right?
    <img src="http://www.locostusa.com/e1done3.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  27. needthatcar Avatar
    needthatcar

    Bajaj Tempo.
    <img src="http://hooniverse.info/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Tempo.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  28. Devin Avatar
    Devin

    This thing is supposed to go ludicrous speeds, but is also a narrow shoe.
    <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2008/09/commuter-car-tango-jorge.jpg"&gt;
    What's not to love about that?

    Reply
    1. joshuman Avatar
      joshuman

      It's a shame they are so damn expensive. $160,000 buys a lot of gasoline. http://www.commutercars.com/ordering.html

      Reply
      1. Devin Avatar
        Devin

        It costs more than my house, yet could fit in my living room.
        Though really the giant pricetag just adds to the sheer absurdity of the thing.

        Reply
    2. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
      Irishzombieman☆

      Kicks ass at autocross too, on account of tons of batteries all placed below the level of the axles.

      Reply
  29. LTDScott Avatar
    LTDScott

    Honda City Turbo II complete with fold up motorcycle.
    <img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nh38HK4MyY0/ULwppphLmnI/AAAAAAAAGfc/7kx3ZSqMS7Y/s1600/1.jpg&quot; width=650>

    Reply
    1. Vavon Avatar
      Vavon

      Motocompo!
      <img src="http://my.reset.jp/~inu/ProductsDataBase/Products/HONDA/MOTOCOMPO/MOTOCOMPO-04.jpg&quot; width=670>

      Reply
      1. Devin Avatar
        Devin

        HondaHondaHonda
        [youtube XzInpoS5xuk http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzInpoS5xuk youtube]

        Reply
  30. muthalovin Avatar
    muthalovin

    <img src="http://www.blogcdn.com/cars.aol.co.uk/media/2012/12/clarkson1.jpg"&gt;
    If it's good enough for that guy…

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
      Irishzombieman☆

      If it had arm articulations it could be called a wheeled exoskeleton.

      Reply
  31. Kogashiwa Avatar
    Kogashiwa

    Oh, nearly forgot, a Vespa Ape will be required when I want to move my elephant.
    <img src="http://a402.idata.over-blog.com/630×470-000000/4/11/58/20/Triporteur-Vespa/ape-elephant.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  32. Garland Avatar
    Garland

    <img src="http://ww1.hdnux.com/photos/10/34/60/2214948/7/628×471.jpg&quot; width="600">
    Can't believe somebody hasn't posted the Goldmember Sparrow yet.

    Reply
    1. Scandinavian Flick ★ Avatar
      Scandinavian Flick ★

      <img src="http://i.imgur.com/Ljaw6.gif"&gt;

      Reply
    2. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
      Peter Tanshanomi

      I think you're the only one here who wants to own that.

      Reply
  33. stigshift Avatar
    stigshift

    All of them.

    Reply
  34. HycoSpeed Avatar
    HycoSpeed

    I really find it hard to believe that no one has painted a Messerschmitt to look like an Me-262 and posted pictures on the webs, but I had no luck finding one. But I think in my world of microcars the Messerschmitt would be king.
    And I would have a bumper sticker that says 'My Other Car is a Stuka'.
    <img src="http://carinpicture.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Messerschmitt-KR200-Super-Record-Car-1955-Photo-01-800×600.jpg&quot; width=600>
    I also found this, which does have military styling, but is more fitting for Sidecar Sunday than a microcar discussion. And I am posting it nonetheless.
    <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ObPy1CUXQDQ/S0AvOkKvsRI/AAAAAAAAAkk/fGoczTQqHEk/s640/Bike+With+Messerschmitt+ME109+Fighter+Plane+%281%29.jpg&quot; width=600>
    <img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ObPy1CUXQDQ/S0AvPiiqXkI/AAAAAAAAAks/_04ZqJuGCAg/s640/Bike+With+Messerschmitt+ME109+Fighter+Plane.jpg&quot; width=600>

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
      Irishzombieman☆

      One of my favorite bikes. Ever.

      Reply
  35. Scandinavian Flick ★ Avatar
    Scandinavian Flick ★

    I have no idea what ever came of the Corbin Merlin, and I can't find any real info online, (even the Wikipedia page for it has been deleted…) but it would have been interesting. First and last time I saw one was probably about 10 years ago at the Sony Metreon in San Francisco.
    <img src="http://i.imgur.com/mcSRgwY.jpg&quot; width="550">
    Since that's clearly not an actual option, the Campagna T-Rex better count. If it doesn't… dealwithit.gif.
    <img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0o7HqnIAzy0/T-M_oQG9WPI/AAAAAAAAAA0/I_7Nx4jQULQ/s1600/T-Rex+Cars.jpg&quot; width="500">
    Hehe, this one is on RPF1s… There's one in Walnut Creek that I see from time to time that just goes tearing all hell through the downtown area, even hitting donuts in the middle of intersections… He's an asshat, but it sure looks fun.

    Reply
    1. Irishzombieman☆ Avatar
      Irishzombieman☆

      Guy I work with drove one that belonged to a business associate. Said the only thing he's ever done that scared him more was rolling a Jeep down a mountain.

      Reply
  36. CherokeeOwner Avatar
    CherokeeOwner

    Piaggio Ape. The pickup version probably, but I wouldn't mind tooling around town in this…
    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/48/Ape_Calessino.jpg/800px-Ape_Calessino.jpg"&gt;
    That Honda City Turbo II with the scooter in the trunk is a very close second.

    Reply
  37. mdharrell Avatar
    mdharrell

    I gave serious thought to attending the recent Microcar Museum auction but ended up passing, which is probably just as well. The prices were far beyond my means. Besides, the museum's Eshelman Sportabout was in rather poor condition:
    <img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8084/8325081794_08d0492b05.jpg&quot; width="450">
    and they had already sold off their Voiture Electronique Porquerolles some years ago (not this one):
    <img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6947487953_9f0a4ca75a.jpg&quot; width="450">
    These were the two items from the collection that would have interested me the most. Their Larmar was a close third, but like the Sportabout, it needed everything.
    Still, all things considered, I'd most love to find a car that's "micro" only by virtue of association with its "manufacturer," the Eshelman Eagle:
    <img src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8529/8586161443_4b5239c240.jpg&quot; width="450">
    It reminds me of a Chevy convertible I used to own….

    Reply
    1. Alff Avatar
      Alff

      That "Eagle" is unsafe at any altitude.
      I didn't realize Dixon was in the microcar business.

      Reply
    2. CherokeeOwner Avatar
      CherokeeOwner

      That Voiture looks awesome. Almost looks like some of the industrial carts Cushman makes today.

      Reply
  38. wisc47 Avatar
    wisc47

    At my university, they use Suzuki Super Stalkers as fleet vehicles. I'm actually authorized to use any UW fleet vehicles, the only problem is that the ones used in our department are box trucks and minivans. Anyways, I'm hoping that I'll be in a situation where I'll get to drive one.
    <img src="http://www.usedminitrucks.com/admin/images/MT0522aa.JPG&quot; width="600">
    I couldn't find an image of a UW branded one.

    Reply
    1. CherokeeOwner Avatar
      CherokeeOwner

      What's wrong with the minivan? Mini Party Wagon! Think about it: Get your friends to class and parties on time, use it for the beer run, and when some radio station does a "How many people can you stuff in a ridiculously small car" contest, you'll at least place second.

      Reply
      1. wisc47 Avatar
        wisc47

        Oh don't get me wrong, there are some serious possibilities, but I just would feel all sorts of wrong if I went my whole life without driving a Kei car.

        Reply
        1. Vairship Avatar
          Vairship

          <img src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/upload/78601955966863931_OUDHgypg_c.jpg&quot; width="500">
          Source: <a href="http://covalentnews.com/1481/pick-up-five-times-more-women-than-a-lamborghini/” target=”_blank”>http://covalentnews.com/1481/pick-up-five-times-more-women-than-a-lamborghini/

          Reply
  39. joshuman Avatar
    joshuman

    The majority of the time my 7-mile commute is spent alone. A small car would be great fun. According to the Hooniversal calendar, 25 weeks ago Mdharrel sent me down the time-consuming path of exploring this micro car museum website: http://microcarmuseum.com/index.html. After that, I came across a picture of a micro car that I really, really wanted to own. I can't find it now but it turned out to be extremely rare and basically unobtainable. It was British, topless, had two headlights, and advertisements showed it seating two ladies (not topless) on the high-street out shopping. I think it was 1920s or 1930s.

    Reply
  40. Tim Odell Avatar
    Tim Odell

    I think I might have you all beat.
    <img src="http://www.roadraceengineering.com/suitcasecar/blakscase-closed.jpg&quot; width=350>
    <img src="http://www.roadraceengineering.com/suitcasecar/blackcase-readytofold.jpg&quot; width=350>
    <img src="http://www.roadraceengineering.com/suitcasecar/blackcase-side.jpg&quot; width=350>
    More info, etc: <a href="http://www.roadraceengineering.com/suitcasecar.htm” target=”_blank”>http://www.roadraceengineering.com/suitcasecar.htm

    Reply
    1. longrooffan Avatar
      longrooffan

      you do.

      Reply
      1. Rory Carroll Avatar
        Rory Carroll

        I'm building one of those.

        Reply
    2. Garland Avatar
      Garland

      I vaguely remember seeing this in a book when I was a kid. Totally forgot it existed.

      Reply
    3. CherokeeOwner Avatar
      CherokeeOwner

      You win.

      Reply
  41. Rory Carroll Avatar
    Rory Carroll

    All of them. If I had to choose just one, it would be the Voisin Biscuter. One wheel drive.

    Reply
  42. e46christopher Avatar
    e46christopher

    Is this out of line?
    <img src="http://cdn-media.hollywood.com/images/l/SouthParkCircle.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
    1. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
      Peter Tanshanomi

      OF course not!
      <img src="http://www.diseno-art.com/images/mcLean-V8-Monowheel.jpg"&gt;

      Reply
      1. Kogashiwa Avatar
        Kogashiwa

        Steam-powered version, good for getaways.
        <img src="http://www.aqpl43.dsl.pipex.com/MUSEUM/TRANSPORT/motorwhl/steamboy1a.jpg"&gt;

        Reply
  43. ˏ♂ˊ mzs zsm msz esq Avatar
    ˏ♂ˊ mzs zsm msz esq

    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/45/1973_Fiat_126_IMG_7855.jpg/500px-1973_Fiat_126_IMG_7855.jpg"&gt; Does it count? If not, that thing that leaned into the turns that Antti got to ride once.

    Reply
  44. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
    Peter Tanshanomi

    Is the Riley Trimuter too big to be considered a microcar?
    <img src="http://i462.photobucket.com/albums/qq350/srwils/TRIMUTER/Oct1330.jpg&quot; width="520">

    Reply
    1. Alff Avatar
      Alff

      Although several of the cars posted here probably don't fit the technical definition, I'll bet that one does. What's the displacement?
      Excellent use of Vega taillights, BTW.

      Reply
      1. bhtooefr Avatar
        bhtooefr

        Electric or a 16 hp Briggs & Stratton opposed-twin. Looks like the B&S twin is 656 cc, which would make it meet all modern engine-based definitions of a microcar (the Japanese under 660 cc limit, and the more generous under 1000 cc limit).

        Reply
        1. mdharrell Avatar
          mdharrell

          According to the Register of Unusual Microcars (RUMcars):
          "The general definition of microcars as economy vehicles with either three or four wheels, powered by petrol engines of no more than 700cc or battery electric propulsion, and manufactured since 1945 was adopted, but this can be varied if justified by vehicle interest."
          Good to go!

          Reply
  45. SSurfer321 Avatar
    SSurfer321

    Lazaruth Wazuma V8F
    250hp 3.0L Ferrari motor on 4 wheels
    <img src="http://www.technikneuheiten.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/Wazuma-V8F-Quad-mit-Ferrari-Motor1.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  46. Devin Avatar
    Devin

    From a recent Craigslist Crapshoot:
    <img src="http://images.craigslist.org/3E83G13F75E45H95J2d3c8e8cb0965efe1578.jpg&quot; width="500">
    Very Fast and Dangerous

    Reply
  47. Vavon Avatar
    Vavon

    No love for the Pussycar Automodule??? WARNING, do not look up Pussycar at work!!!
    <img src="http://popupcity.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Pussycar-1.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  48. windbuechse Avatar
    windbuechse

    Heinkel Trojan – gotta keep ahead of the Messerschmidt!
    [youtube -OFO1xkRVZA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-OFO1xkRVZA youtube]

    Reply
  49. 2cver Avatar
    2cver

    I like a car that folds up and is French, Reyonnah!

    Reply
  50. sporty88au Avatar
    sporty88au

    Goggomobil Dart:
    <img src="http://www.theage.com.au/ffximage/2008/08/22/goggo6_gallery__600x338.jpg"&gt;

    Reply
  51. Felis_Concolor Avatar
    Felis_Concolor

    Not a really difficult question for me; I already own a Haflinger.
    If it were for a microcar I don't already own, I'd go with the ME TG500 from the carburetor era, or Nissan's Figaro and maybe an AZ-1 for a modern power train.

    Reply
  52. Tomsk Avatar
    Tomsk

    I think I'd have a Daihatsu Mira Van. Then I'd turn it into America's smallest food truck, serving teeny tiny burgers, raisin-sized chicken nuggets, and other miniature novelty dishes.
    <img src="http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/37/Daihatsu_Mira_Walk-through_Van_003.JPG/800px-Daihatsu_Mira_Walk-through_Van_003.JPG&quot; width="500" />

    Reply
    1. Peter Tanshanomi Avatar
      Peter Tanshanomi

      So, basically a "slider van."

      Reply
  53. jjd241 Avatar
    jjd241

    Duh…!
    <img src="http://i.imgur.com/odTJJDW.jpg&quot; title="Hosted by imgur.com" /></a width=500>
    <a href="http://hooniverse.info/2012/03/19/the-why-not-ev-midget-build-part-1/” target=”_blank”>http://hooniverse.info/2012/03/19/the-why-not-ev-midget-build-part-1/

    Reply
  54. Gifts for her Avatar
    Gifts for her

    Since I finished that book I’ve started 4 businesses. Failing to do so
    makes it certain for the company to falter drastically in the longer run. Once you have unveiled your web campaign function, keep track of
    how guests respond on blogs or other social
    network sites.

    Reply
  55. เบอร์สวย Avatar
    เบอร์สวย

    Hi my family member! I wish to say that this post is amazing,
    nice written and include approximately all significant infos.
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    Reply