Heinkel, like fellow airplane maker Messerschmitt, was prohibited from making aircraft after WWII. In 1953 Heinkel began building a high end 4-stroke scooter called the Tourist. Scooter sales soon began to slow, and in 1956 Heinkel began building bubble cars. Despite its engine being smaller, the Heinkel was just as fast as the BMW Isetta because it was 220 lbs lighter, and had more room than the Isetta. Heinkel stopped producing cars in 1958 but sold the license to produce cars in Ireland under the name Trojan. Trojan continued to produce cars
until 1965. This is a special car to the museum because in 2008 Claude Guéniffey, the owner, and Jeff Lane competed in this car in the 1200 mile long Microcar rally from Liège, Belgium to Brescia, Italy, and back. With Jeff driving and Claude navigating, they were able to win the “Under 200cc” class despite a crash in Italy. (Notice the damage on the left front fender). In 2012 Claude bought a 2CV, and stopped using the Heinkel so he generously donated it to the museum. Says Jeff Lane, “The Heinkel amazed me on the rally; we drove it 6 days, 10 hours
a day wide open, only stopping for fuel in the middle of the day. Except for the air cleaner falling off, and the points needing adjustment in Italy, the car never missed a beat. A truly well-engineered vehicle…”
Specifications:
Manufacturer: Ernst Heinkel AG Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen
Country of Origin: Germany
Drivetrain Configuration: Mid engine, rear wheel drive
Engine: 175cc, 4 stroke, single cylinder, 14HP
Transmission: 4 speed manual
Top Speed: 55 mph
Years of Production: 1956-58
Number Produced: 6,000
Original Cost: Unknown