Perhaps the biggest mystery concerning Ernest Heinkel’s Kabine Cruiser is how its creator got away with producing a design outwardly so similar to BMW’s Isetta.

Launched in 1956, the Heinkel used a 175cc, single-cylinder, four-stroke engine originally developed for a motor scooter and while closely resembling the Isetta, it was both lighter and more spacious, even providing children’s seats in the rear.

A four-speed gearbox made the Heinkel nippy in traffic, while a simplified design of front-opening door avoided the complication of its rival’s jointed steering column.

Larger-engined (204cc and 198cc) models were offered later, as well as four-wheeled versions, convertibles and vans.

After around 6,000 had been made, production was discontinued in Germany in 1958 but continued in other countries, Ireland included, where approximately 8,000 were built before the rights transferred to Trojan in the UK in 1961.

This little bubble-car offered here is presented   in lovely condition.
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