Messerschmitt KR175

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The Messerschmitt KR175 (1953–1955) was the first version of the Fend Flitzer that was a "full sized" bubble car. 19,668 were sold before the model was changed to the Messerschmitt KR200, in 1956.

[edit] Use in popular culture

• The car was used as a "personal transporter" for the character of Sam Lowry in the cult film Brazil. The car appeared to be powered by a small jet engine. In the film the car was destroyed by fire. However this vehicle may be at best, a kr175/200 hybrid with additional non production parts added for the film. The front fender is very similar to one used on a kr 200 that featured in the cult Swedish TV series Kenny Starfighter(1997). Cousin Itt drives one in the 1991 film The Addams Family.

[edit] Data

• Configuration: mid (rear) engine, rear drive
• Seating, front/rear: 1/1
• Weather protection: bubble canopy coupe, convertible or open roadster
• Heating/air conditioning: none/none
• Engine type: Fichtel & Sachs, 1 cylinder, 2 stroke
• Displacement: 174 cm³
• Bore x stroke— 62 x 58 mm
• Compression: 6.8:1
• Power: 9.0 hp @ 5,250 rpm
• Cooling: air, with fan
• Starter: kick starter, later Dynastart
• Drive: 4 speed and chain to single rear wheel
• Brakes: 3 wheel
• Wheel size: 4.00 by 8 in
• Dimensions (length/width/height) (m): 2.820/1.220/1.200
• Wheelbase: 2.030 m
• Track, front/rear: 0.920/0 m.
• Weight, empty/full load (kg): 210/360 kg.
• Fuel consumption: 3.7 l/100 km, 63.5 mi./U.S. gal.
• Top speed: 80 km/h (50 mi/h)
• Years built: 1953 to 1955
• Number built: 15,000 (19,668 from another source)
• Price : DM 2,100.00