A COLLECTION of quirky micro-cars that were loved by Elvis Presley have gone on sale for a huge sum – with some dating back 60 years.
The tiny vehicles found popularity in the late ’50s and early ’60s as cheaper alternatives to their full-size counterparts.
BNPSA collection of micro-cars has gone up for sale[/caption]
AlamyThe bizarre motors were beloved by Elvis Presley[/caption]
Their fame only grew when the King of Rock and Roll was snapped out and about in one at a US Army base in Germany.
Sitting at just 10ft long and with some in three-wheel spec, they were ideal for weaving through congested cities.
That, combined with there excellent fuel efficiency, made them a staple for hard-up Brits during the post-war era.
This collection features a selection of seven micro-cars, including a 1960 BMW Isetta 300 – the same model Elvis was seen driving.
Other models include a 1963 Messerschmitt KR200 Kabinenroller made by the same company famous for its fighter planes in the Second World War, as well as a 1957 Fuldamobil Series 7, which is considered to be the first ‘Bubble Car.
Each has a different setup and body shape, lending it a unique charm.
They come in hatchback, sedan and three-wheeler models.
Unlike the more famous Reliant Robin, known for its association with Only Fools and Horses, the three-wheel models here have the single wheel at the back with the normal two up front.
One even has a luggage rack on its slimmed-down rear end, thought we’re not sure how much you’d actually be able to fit on there.
Despite their bizarre looks, the cars are actually quite valuable.
This bunch is set to sell for as much as £150,000.
Malcolm Barber, a consultant for Bonham’s auctioneers, said: “Microcars came about in a period of austerity post-war as manufacturers and engineers sought to make smaller cars which were more affordable and fuel efficient.
“For 10 to 12 years they maintained their popularity, with the fact Elvis liked them certainly helping.
“By the end of the 60s, people had more disposable income and cars like the Mini Cooper had emerged.
“Surviving models are rare and there is a cult market for them.”
The auction will take place on February 1.
BNPSThey include a car made by renowned aircraft manufacturer Messerschmitt[/caption]
BNPSSome resemble a Reliant Robin, only with the single wheel at the rear[/caption]
BNPSMicro-cars were hit with hard-up Brits in the post-war period[/caption]
BNPSThey died off in the ’60s but a ‘cult market’ remains[/caption]