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Closed Auction- Unsold

1957 Heinkel Kabine 153

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  • Mileage1,243
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine0.2L
  • LocationNewport

AUCTION CLOSED

1957 Heinkel Kabine 153

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Video #2

Introduction

Matt Nolan
Photographer & Consigner

Economical, cute and fun - this car will attract more attention than a Ferrari.

Created with fuel economy in mind, the German-made Heinkel Kabine 153 is the most recognisable of the bubble car genre. Remarkably, you could just about fit four people in it and the 197cc four-stroke engine could cruise happily at up to 50mph. Unlike some other bubble cars, it had a reverse gear and a surprisingly technical spec that included an electric starter, safety windscreen and rack and pinion steering. With the advent of the more refined and bigger BMC Mini towards the end of the '50s, the age of the Microcar suddenly came to a halt yet their popularity has not diminished. A high number of survivors suggest that their good build quality and demand allows their values to remain buoyant. The car has an excellent club and provides a lively social scene in which you will make friends with every outing.

This 1957 example is in excellent condition throughout, having been subject to restoration. Sourced via South Africa, the car can claim to be one of the best examples currently available on the market, finished in an eye-catching red and a beautifully presented interior.

This auction listing was written from information supplied by Matt after meeting Donal the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

I just love micro cars, having owned an Isetta in the past, the Heinkel was a lovely project to finish off.

Don absolutely loves his bubble cars. Moving on to a Heinkel from the BMW Isetta was an easy journey. He found a great car that was 95% complete from South Africa, something that he could work on to complete. With the help of the Heinkel Trojan Club, two years later he was able to complete this 153, presenting beautifully as you see it today.

Although diminutive in size, an impending house move means Don will be losing his garage space, and so naturally he is looking for another enthusiast to continue ownership of this rare car. He mentions that the car always captures peoples' attention when he's out and about, and it's clear when you talk to him that he has a real passion for these cars.

Don will be more than happy to answer any questions you have in the comments.

Don
Vehicle Owner

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EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

Presented in lovely condition - you'll struggle to find better.

Wheels and Tyres

The steel wheels are in good condition with the lightest of road use wear.

The chrome trims do not show any significant damage.

The tyres are well within the legal tread and have lots of life in them.

Bodywork

The car has spent much of its life in South Africa, which means the metal has been spared the usual salt and dampness that often plague UK cars. The panel fit is very good, with the opening and closing of the solitary door being seamless.

Importantly no significant issues with corrosion were observed, with the underside being in very solid condition. The external panel work does not have any signs of corrosion and is dent and scuff free.

The folding sunshine roof is in good condition, with no damage to the canvas and operates as expected.

Paint

Originally finished in white, the car has been professionally painted red, with no issues in regards to the quality of the finish.

It gleams throughout and the inspection suggested that the quality and evenness of paint was very good with no evidence of over spray or poor masking.

Glass and Trim

The glass is in good condition, with no scratches or damage noted. The glass and door rubbers are in good condition too with no damage. The offside front quarter glass is a new item.

The chrome trim is in good condition throughout, with no signs of pitting or dents.

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

The interior presentation is as beautiful as it is inviting - making every trip a memorable occasion.

Seats and Carpets

The seats have been retrimmed and as a result are in near perfect condition, with no evidence of damage.

The rubber mat is in good condition with no wear or damage.

The door card and map pocket in free from scuffs or wear.

Dashboard

The two dials are simplicity themselves and they look original with associated patina - really lovely.

The speedometer and clock are said to function along with all of the other electrical items.

There are small surface marks on the headlining but no rips.

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The gear selector is good, with minor signs of wear observed on the gear plate.

There are minor cracks on the steering wheel which again is all part of the charm - put it this way, they've survived for over 60 years and we're sure are good for another 60 :-)

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

The Heinkel is not about power output - but it still entertains and gives you a happy feeling inside.

Engine and Gearbox

The four-stroke engine by its nature is a noisy experience but starts well with no misfiring or uneven running.

The visual condition of the engine is very good, suggesting that it has been well maintained and has obviously been subject to care.

The gears are said to engage well.

The carb has been upgraded to include an automatic choke but it comes with the original item too.

The car has a new clutch fitted.

Suspension and Brakes

As part of the rebuild, the running gear has been overhauled and has new suspension components and brakes. The brakes are said to function well, with no significant noises during their operation.

The Drive

A completely unique but always fun experience and not a car for shrinking violets. Best seen as a fair-weather car, the Heinkel is all about the journey rather than the destination.

Driving the Heinkel requires a 'knack', where you have to feel for the gears and being aware that uphill driving is a challenge but nonetheless the car rides and handles surprisingly well.

There's no doubt about it, it can't help but make you smile and that's what this car is all about. Smiles.

Electrics and Other

Electrically the car is in good order, with no outstanding concerns.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

The car presents beautifully having been subject to an extensive rebuild, with expert advice from the Heinkel Trojan Club.

There's not much in terms of paperwork to busy yourself with, as often the case with imports. It is known that the car was rebuilt and resprayed 4 years ago, with a new clutch, suspension and brakes also being part of the work.

We've actioned our usual checks on the seller, V5 and HPi clear.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
22-04-2020 MOT (Expired - Covid Extension)
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Key Details
  • ModelKabine 153
  • TransmissionManual
  • Reg. Date1957
  • CC175
  • Mileage1,243
  • ColourRed
  • Interior ColourRed
  • Interior TrimVinyl
  • Chassis #303838
  • Engine #484594
  • RestoredYes
  • MOTExp 30-10-2020
  • MOT ExemptYes
  • Road Tax ExemptYes
  • HPi ClearYes - Clear
  • Former Keepers-
  • LHD or RHDLHD
  • VisitedYes
  • Sale TypePrivate
  • Key FeatureCondition
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Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

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Vehicle Location

Newport, Gwent

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Auction Closed

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This car didn't meet its reserve price and may soon be available as a private sale - please contact us for more information.

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Vehicle Location

Newport, Gwent

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