Quirk Database1960sIsle of ManThree-wheeler
Peel P50
The Peel P50 is a single-seat microcar made by Peel on the Isle of Man from 1962 to 1965. Its weirdest quirk: There's no reverse gear. To turn round you get out, lift the tail by its chrome handle and drag the car about.
The smallest production car ever made: one seat, one door, one headlight and a chrome handle on the back, because reverse gear was considered optional. Originals are so rare that most of what crosses the block is a replica or a continuation car.
Quick facts
- Maker: Peel
- Years: 1962–1965
- Country of origin: Isle of Man
- Body type: Single-seat microcar
- Engine: 49cc two-stroke single
- Weirdest quirk: There's no reverse gear. To turn round you get out, lift the tail by its chrome handle and drag the car about.
- Sold prices logged: 2 (latest: A$85,000 at Donington Auctions, Oct 19, 2025)
- Full story: Peel P50: One Seat, One Door, One Headlight, Zero Reverse Gear
Sold prices
| Date | Venue | Car | Price | Mileage | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Donington Auctions | 1964 Peel P50 (barn find, chassis D533)Australian auction record for a microcar, per the auction house | A$85,000 | Not stated | Result for 1964 Peel P50 (barn find, chassis D533) at Donington Auctions ↗ | |
| Bring a Trailer | Electric-Powered 2017 Peel P50 ContinuationContinuation car, not an original | $16,750 | TMU (total mileage unknown) | Result for Electric-Powered 2017 Peel P50 Continuation at Bring a Trailer ↗ |
Prices as published by each auction site, in the currency the car sold in. "TMU" means total mileage unknown.