In My Garage

It’s no secret that even-number-wheeled vehicles rule the streets. So, on the rare occasion when you see something with three, you’ve gotta take the time to give it a second look! I’ve dug through the oddball archive to bring you my Top 5 three-wheelers. What would you add to the list?

5. 1885 Benz Patent Motorwagen – Germany
We’ll start where cars began, in 1885 with the Benz Patent Motorwagen. This piece of motoring history was designed from the ground up (not from a modified carriage like many think) by Karl Benz. While Benz wanted to build a four-wheeler, he was unable to design a satisfactory two-wheel steering system, so he settled for a simpler single front wheel.

4. 2005 Peugeot 20Cup Concept – France
Peugeot unveiled the 20Cup Concept at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show to confirm their presence in motorsports and showcase their creative abilities. The coolest aspect of this three-wheeler is its single-arm rear axle, which is used to steer the 20Cup. Many of the technological advances found in the 20Cup have been used in Peugeot production and motorsport cars in the years since.

3. 2009 Campagna T-Rex – Canada
Ok, this thing is just plain awesome! 197hp, 0-60mph in under 4 seconds, and a top speed of 144mph… all while weighing in just over 1,000lbs. This is the Ariel Atom of three-wheelers. Show-up your supercar friends for only $50,000!

2. 1953 Messerschmitt KR175 – Germany
After being temporarily restricted from manufacturing aircraft in the early 50s, Messerschmitt focused its resources elsewhere to generate income. This diversion gave us the KR175 and later the KR200. The most interesting aspect of the Messerschmitt KR cars is the steering controls, which use a tubular handlebar (much like a bicycle) instead of a traditional steering wheel.

1. 1958 Daihatsu Bee – Japan
Daihatsu had been manufacturing three-wheelers for carrying freight and military use for over 20 years when they began marketing the Bee in 1951. Production of the Bee took place in 1958, and ended after only 90 units were manufactured. Poor sales performance is believed to be the reason for the limited production. Super-cool and ultra-rare… the Bee is my #1 three-wheeler.