It seems I got away with it, because Ray tells me that of all the cars here, the Heinkel is probably the most dynamically accomplished. Which rather begs the question: why do we buy a classic microcar?

Ray’s response is predictable: “Because they’re weird!” 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 become owners of micro cars knowing that 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.

Citroën Ami is the modern microcar

During the 1980s and 1990s, numerous companies sprang up across Europe to manufacture a new generation of microcars, now called lightweight quadricycles and officially recognized by European lawmakers. They can be driven by children from the age of 14, but there are strict limits on power (8 hp), maximum performance (45 km/h) and weight (425 kg, without battery). it is an electric vehicle), and it is these rules which led to the introduction of the electric Citroën Ami, Opel Rocks and their cousin, the Fiat Topolino.

As a modern microcar, the Ami fits right into this group because it shows how much things have evolved over the last 65 years or so – but it’s not all progress. Compared to any of the classics, the Ami is a breeze to drive with its automatic transmission and efficient brakes, and although it’s bouncy because the suspension is too firm, the Citroën is really fun.