Microcars: tiny cars that were ahead of their time

Looks like I got off lightly because Ray told me that of all the cars here, the Heinkel is probably the most dynamically accomplished. Which begs the question: Why would anyone buy a classic microcar?

Ray’s reaction is predictable: “Because they’re so interesting! The microcar scene is full of interesting people and interesting cars that are an important part of our history.

“Of course their performances are limited, but people love them and film us every time we go out. People buy microcars knowing they will be the center of attention, but in a good way, because these cars make people smile and that’s what it’s all about.”

Citroen Ami is the modern microcar

In the eighties and nineties, a number of companies across Europe emerged to produce a new type of microcar, now called lightweight quadricycles, which has been officially recognized by EU legislators. Even 14-year-olds can drive these vehicles, but there are strict limits on power (8 hp), maximum performance (28 mph) and weight (425 kg, without batteries if it is an electric vehicle), and these rules have led to the introduction of electric vehicles. electric Citroen Ami, Opel Rocks and their cousin Fiat Topolino.

As today’s microcar, the Ami fits into this group perfectly because it shows how far things have come in the last 65 years; But it’s not just progress. Compared to any of the classics, the Ami is very easy to drive with its automatic transmission and effective brakes, and although it is bouncy because its suspension is so stiff, Citroën It’s really fun.