We all appreciate the thrill of speed, often dreaming of experiencing the high-octane lifestyles depicted in movies like The Transporter or The Fast and the Furious. But have you ever considered the opposite end of the spectrum? What about driving the world’s slowest car?
While “how fast can it go?” is the typical question when considering a new vehicle, there’s a unique charm to a leisurely drive in a low-power car. Imagine the opportunity for reflection in our fast-paced lives, not to mention the benefits of superior fuel economy, a reduced carbon footprint, and avoiding speeding tickets.
Several slow cars exist, but the question remains: what is the world’s slowest car? Let’s explore the fascinating world of automobiles at the opposite end of the speed spectrum.
What is the World’s Slowest Car?
The title of world’s slowest car belongs to the Peel P50, a marvel of micro-engineering crafted by Peel Engineering. Its slowness is so iconic that it’s cemented its place in automotive history. Not only does it hold the Guinness World Record as the smallest car ever made, but it also proudly wears the crown of the slowest.
Just how slow is it? The Peel P50 has a top speed of just 28mph (approximately 45 km/h). This deliberately limited speed was in line with Peel’s original slogan: “Almost cheaper than walking.”
The Specs of the Peel P50: The Epitome of Slow
First introduced in 1962, the Peel P50, with its mere 54 inches in length, was and continues to be the smallest car globally. Production ceased in 1969, but the P50 made a comeback in 2010, now available in both petrol and electric versions.
The original model was minimalist: a single door on the left, one windscreen wiper, and a solitary headlight. It lacked a reverse gear, but its incredibly light weight of only 130 pounds meant it could be easily maneuvered by hand using a rear handle.
The modern iteration retains the original’s dimensions but features updated drivetrain, suspension, and steering systems. Crucially, it now includes a functional reverse gear.
Both the classic and contemporary Peel P50 share the same top speed of 28mph. However, the original engine was a 49cc moped unit producing 4.2 horsepower. The modern petrol version uses a 49cc four-stroke engine, slightly less powerful at 3.35 horsepower.
It now features a modern CVT transmission, a departure from the original’s three-speed setup. The electric version matches the power output using a moped electric motor and gelled-electrolyte batteries.
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Unique Experiences with Small, Slow Cars
Beyond the iconic P50, several other microcars offer a similarly unique, albeit slow, driving experience. Here’s a brief look at some notable examples:
Brütsch Mopetta
Preceding the P50 by six years, the open-topped Brütsch Mopetta, launched in 1956, featured a reversed layout with two rear-drive wheels and single front-wheel steering. Conceived by German microcar designer Egon Brütsch in Stuttgart, it represents another approach to ultra-compact motoring.
Its distinctive style and extreme rarity have spurred the creation of replicas, including those by British microcar expert Andy Carter, keeping the spirit of this slow but stylish vehicle alive.
Aixam Coupe
The Aixam Coupe is a modern two-seater quadricycle, categorized as a ‘carped’ coupe. Remarkably, in the UK, it can be driven without a full driving license, and even 16-year-olds can operate it after completing basic CBT and Moped tests, highlighting its accessibility and low-speed nature.
Power comes from a 400cc two-cylinder diesel engine producing a modest 5.6 horsepower. With a top speed of just 30 mph (approximately 48 km/h), the Aixam Coupe comfortably sits among the world’s slowest cars available today.
FMR TG500
Following post-WWII restrictions on aircraft production, Messerschmitt ventured into microcars, developing the Kabinenrollers (‘cabin scooters’), three-wheelers based on the Fend Flitzer инвалидной коляске (handicapped carriage).
The FMR TG500 was a faster, four-wheeled variant, though still decidedly slow compared to mainstream cars. Its 494cc twin-cylinder engine produced around 20bhp. Despite its modest power, a TG500 was auctioned for over $300,000 in 2013, reflecting its rarity and collector’s value.
Fuji Cabin
Produced in Tokyo from 1955 to 1958, the Fuji Cabin shares design similarities with the Peel P50 in terms of structure, suspension, brakes, and its Cyclops-style central headlight.
However, the Fuji Cabin featured a rear-mounted 122cc, 5.5bhp single-cylinder engine. Its two seats were staggered, and its 115-inch length made it comparatively larger than the P50. While still slow, it offered slightly more practicality than some of its microcar contemporaries.
Is a Peel P50 Practical? The Appeal of the Slowest Car
Purchasing the slowest modern car might seem impractical, especially considering the Peel P50’s price tag of around $16,000. For that price, numerous used mid-range cars with far greater features are available.
However, the Peel P50 and similar microcars offer unique advantages. The P50 boasts an impressive 118 mpg (35 mpg for the EV version), making it incredibly fuel-efficient and a viable alternative to walking for short distances. Plus, it’s famously known as the only car you can park in your living room!
For a more entertaining perspective on this unique vehicle, check out Top Gear’s feature on the Peel P50!
FAQs on The Slowest Cars Worldwide
What is the world’s slowest car price?
The value of a Peel P50 varies dramatically. Original models, being exceptionally rare, command high prices at auctions, often exceeding $100,000. Replicas are available at a lower, but still significant, cost.
What is the slowest electric car ever made?
The Buddy Electric, a Norwegian city car, is considered one of the slowest production EVs with a top speed of 50 km/h (31 mph). Other small electric cars like the G-Wiz are also known for their limited performance.
Are there modern cars slower than classic models?
Yes! Some modern ultra-efficient city cars like the Renault Twizy (top speed: 28 mph / 45 km/h) or the Citroën Ami (top speed: 28 mph / 45 km/h) are indeed slower than many classic cars from previous eras. Their design prioritizes urban mobility over speed.
Can a car be too slow for highways?
Absolutely. Many regions have minimum speed limits on highways. Vehicles like the G-Wiz (max speed: 50 mph / 80 km/h) or Citroën Ami are often too slow for highway use and are restricted to urban roads in many places.
Final Words
The world’s slowest car, exemplified by the Peel P50 and other microcars, holds a distinctive position in automotive history. They demonstrate that practicality, novelty, and efficiency can be just as compelling as sheer speed and power.
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