By Ahmed Abdelsalam
A Peel P50, officially recognised as the world's smallest production car, is set to go under the hammer at Iconic Auctioneers in Ashorne, Warwickshire, on 14 November with an estimate of £40,000 to £60,000.
History and Design
The three-wheeled microcar measures just 4.5 feet long and 3.5 feet wide, with room for one adult and a shopping bag. Built by the Peel Engineering Company on the Isle of Man in 1964, it retailed new for £199 (equivalent to about £3,635 today) and was advertised as "almost cheaper than walking" due to its fuel economy. The P50 has a top speed of nearly 40 mph and no reverse gear; the driver uses a rear handle to lift and turn the car by hand. Only about 50 were produced between 1962 and 1965, and fewer than 30 are believed to survive.
Provenance of This Vehicle
The olive green example now being sold was imported new into Finland in 1964 and remained there until earlier this year. Iconic Auctioneers describes it as presented in unrestored, highly original condition, recently repatriated to the UK and ripe for complete restoration.
Auction Expectations
An auction house spokesperson said the car tells a remarkable story, from its conception by Peel Engineering founder Cyril Cannell to its debut at the 1962 Earl's Court Cycle and Motorcycle Show. Car specialist Alex Lucocq noted the P50 has achieved cult status over the past 20 years, praised by enthusiasts such as Jeremy Clarkson, and that its scarcity means an original example often commands more than many British sports cars of the era.
The auction takes place on 14 November.
