The Strangest Microcar Ever Sports a Bowtie and Top Hat Without Any Shame | Carscoops

      This peculiar microcar, designed with a magician theme and featuring a small engine, will be auctioned this fall from a renowned collection.

      The Cyclops II microcar is equipped with a single-cylinder engine that produces 6.5 horsepower and utilizes chain drive.

      This compact vehicle stands at just 52 inches tall and can accommodate two passengers in a somewhat upright fetal position.

      Its exterior boasts a black-and-white tuxedo design, complete with a prominent red bowtie.

      Enthusiasts have long been captivated by small, eccentric cars, but few are as whimsically unique as the Cyclops II. Initially envisioned as a fictional design in a satirical 1957 article by cartoonist Stan Mott for Road & Track, the concept was later brought to life by the magazine. Since then, several replicas have been crafted, each embracing the car’s playful strangeness. On September 21st, one of these rare models will be available at auction.

      Additionally, a rare Corbin Sparrow Microcar, small enough to fit in your living room, will also be featured.

      This particular Cyclops II is part of Larry Klairmont’s extensive car collection and showcases a unique finish inspired by a tuxedoed magician. The lower body is painted black, while the upper half is white, accented with a red pinstripe and a large red bowtie at the front. The microcar even has a top hat.

      Compact Yet Charismatic

      The Cyclops makes a BMW Isetta appear luxurious by comparison. With tiny wheels and white covers, it hardly looks streetworthy, yet it is fully operational and has just enough cabin space for two passengers, albeit in an upright fetal position.

      Beneath the diminutive exterior lies a chain-driven, single-cylinder Briggs & Stratton engine that offers a mere 6.5 horsepower. While the original Cyclops II could reportedly reach speeds of up to 20 mph (32 km/h), this specific version may be slightly slower. Given the additional aerodynamic resistance from the top hat and bowtie, the engine might struggle to keep pace.

      According to Mecum Auctions, this Cyclops II measures merely 52 inches in height, 48 inches in length, and 38 inches in width. Despite its compact size, it has made appearances at notable events such as the Rallye Monte Carlo and the US Grand Prix at Watkins Glen, illustrating that charm can sometimes outshine practicality.

      This September, nearly 300 vehicles from Klairmont’s collection will be auctioned through Mecum. You can find the complete listing on their website.