The Heinkel Kabine is a fascinating piece of automotive history, a German three-wheeled microcar that stands out for its distinctive design and the innovative engineering that went into its creation. Born out of the post-war need for economical transportation, the Heinkel Kabine represents a blend of practicality, ingenuity, and a touch of the avant-garde. Let’s dive into the story behind this iconic microcar, its specifications, design, and its place in automotive history.

A Glimpse into the Heinkel Kabine

A Unique Microcar from Germany

The Heinkel Kabine is a three-wheeled microcar that was produced in Germany between 1956 and 1958. Known for its compact design and efficient use of space, it captures the essence of post-war German engineering. Though it shares some visual similarities with the BMW Isetta, the Heinkel Kabine is a distinctive vehicle with a different design philosophy and a strong legacy in the world of microcars.

Video

Watch this video to discover the quirky Heinkel Trojan Bubblecar and its unique design!

What Makes the Heinkel Kabine Special?

Technical Details That Set It Apart

The Heinkel Kabine was manufactured by Ernst Heinkel Fahrzeugbau GmbH, based in Stuttgart, Germany. Only 6,438 units of this model were produced, making it a rare and valuable collector’s item today. The car’s compact nature and small production run contribute to its allure among vintage car enthusiasts.

Power and Performance

Powered by a Heinkel 1-cylinder, 4-stroke engine, the Kabine boasts a 173 cc displacement that generates 9.3 horsepower. Despite its modest power output, the Kabine was designed to be light and efficient, achieving remarkable performance for its size.

Compact in Size, Big in Character

With a length of 8 feet 9 inches (approximately 2.67 meters), the Heinkel Kabine is a compact car by any standard. This small size was one of the key features that made the Kabine perfect for navigating the crowded streets of post-war Europe.

A Unique Identity

The Heinkel Kabine was assigned the identification number 305056, and this particular model is an example of the Type 150 three-wheeler, produced from March 1956 to February 1958.

The Story Behind the Heinkel Kabine

The Vision of Ernst Heinkel

Professor Ernst Heinkel, a respected aircraft constructor, is the key figure behind the Kabine. Alongside Messerschmitt and BMW, Heinkel was one of the “big three” companies that transitioned from aircraft production to microcar manufacturing after World War II. The Kabine was designed with a unique approach that borrowed principles from aircraft engineering, making it more than just a simple microcar.

From Aircraft to Scooters

Heinkel initially turned to scooter manufacturing as a more practical business venture in the aftermath of the war. The company’s scooters, which included models like the Heinkel Tourist, were incredibly successful and remained in production well into the 1960s. These scooters served as a stepping stone for Heinkel to launch his automobile division, which ultimately led to the development of the Kabine.

Innovation and Design in the Heinkel Kabine

Drawing Inspiration from Aviation

The Heinkel Kabine was conceived with aircraft engineering in mind. The design of the Kabine wasn’t just a modified version of the BMW Isetta; it evolved through five prototypes, each improving upon the last. One of the key innovations was the use of a monocoque body without a separate chassis. This allowed for a weight saving of 220 pounds compared to the BMW Isetta, making the Kabine more agile and efficient.

Thoughtful Design for Maximum Efficiency

The Kabine’s engine was centrally located, positioned further back behind the cabin to achieve a short tail that helped reduce the overall length of the vehicle. This design made the Kabine appear more streamlined and aerodynamically efficient, contributing to its unique look that combined elements of both the Isetta and the Messerschmitt.

A Gearbox with a Difference

The Heinkel Kabine’s transmission system was another point of distinction. It used a flexible Bowden cable to operate the gears, with a notched slot for the gear lever, a departure from the gate-style mechanism found in many cars of the time. This design gave the Kabine a distinctive feel when shifting gears.

The Heinkel Kabine Type 150: A Classic of Its Time

A Short but Memorable Production Run

The Type 150, produced between 1956 and 1958, was the most prominent version of the Heinkel Kabine. This model is often regarded as the quintessential Heinkel microcar due to its smooth, streamlined design, and its innovative use of materials and engineering. The production run of the Type 150 was relatively short, which adds to the rarity of this model today.

Features that Define the Type 150

The Type 150 Kabine featured a simple yet elegant interior with a brown and plaid upholstery that has become iconic in its own right. It was equipped with Hella blinkers, a difficult-to-find feature that adds to its authenticity. The model also featured a slightly longer tail, introduced in 1957, which improved the vehicle’s aerodynamics and overall appearance.

Heinkel Kabine’s Place in the World of Microcars

A Special Role in Automotive History

While the Heinkel Kabine may share similarities with other post-war microcars like the BMW Isetta, it occupies a unique place in the history of microcars. The design principles behind the Kabine and its relatively limited production make it a standout in the world of vintage cars. Collectors and automotive enthusiasts alike value the Heinkel Kabine for its rarity and historical significance.

A Rare Find for Car Collectors

Given its brief production and the high attrition rate of these cars, the Heinkel Kabine is now considered a rare find in the world of classic cars. Those who manage to find an original Kabine are in possession of a piece of history, as this vehicle is not only a technical marvel but also a symbol of post-war Germany’s ability to innovate and rebuild.

The Heinkel Kabine Today: Preserving the Past

The Legacy of an Icon

Today, the Heinkel Kabine remains a highly sought-after collectible. Many of the surviving examples are original, with some meticulously restored to their former glory. The original Grecian White paint, brown and plaid interiors, and the distinctive features such as the Hella blinkers remain a testament to the car’s craftsmanship.

A Charming Piece of History

The Heinkel Kabine is not just a car; it’s a conversation piece. Its quirky design, combined with its historical significance, ensures that it continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether displayed in a museum or shown off at classic car rallies, the Heinkel Kabine is a timeless reminder of a bygone era in automotive history.

Conclusion

The Heinkel Kabine may not be as widely known as some of its contemporaries, but it stands as a shining example of German engineering and innovation in the world of microcars. Its unique design, coupled with its brief production history, makes it an enduring symbol of the post-war automotive renaissance. For collectors and vintage car enthusiasts, the Heinkel Kabine is not just a vehicle; it’s a piece of history that continues to capture the imagination.

Video

Watch this video to see the Kabinenroller with its distinctive ‘baby snout’ as the Trojaner takes center stage in Bares für Rares from 19.08.2020!