We’re not exactly sure why you should ever want one, but should you ever want to cruise through your office’s hallways like Jeremy Clarkston, rest assured it’s possible without buying an original Peel microcar. Modern Microcars, a firm based out of England, specializes in building replicas of Goggomobil Darts, Messerschmitts, Scootacars, Isettas, and, of course, Peels.
(Click through for more on the revived micro machines)
Modern Microcars suggests their replicas allow those so inclined (and sized) to enjoy vintage microcars without “the worries associated with using rare and sometimes fragile vehicles.” Hence, although they look identical to the originals, it’s not unusual to find some “modern” upgrades, notably in terms of electrical equipment or drivetrain, lying underhood.
Perhaps the biggest upgrade lies with the Messerschmitt Tiger replica fitted with a four-cylinder mill and a five-speed manual from a Renault 5. We’re not saying that’s state-of-the-art, but it would be a bit more pep than the original’s 494-cc twin-cylinder mill.
Granted, if you’re looking for a kit car with few creature comforts, we’d reccomend some form of a Lotus or Caterham 7, but if you insist upon attaining vehicular notoriety by parking in your colleague’s cubicle, you’ll want to order one - and likely a Peel. Pricing for either the P50 or Trident bodyshells start at £1,350 ($2,690); completed cars usually run around £9,995 ($19,920). Just don’t ask us to serve as your reverse gear.