Cyclops II: The Eccentric Microcar with a Bowtie and Top Hat That Stands Out at Auction

An Icon of Automotive Whimsy: The Cyclops II Microcar

For automotive collectors and enthusiasts drawn to unconventional vehicles, few microcars can match the playful spirit of the Cyclops II. Originally dreamed up as a satirical creation in 1957 by Stan Mott for Road & Track, the Cyclops II blurred the line between fiction and reality when the magazine turned this cartoon concept into a tangible, drivable car. Over the decades, only a handful of faithful replicas have been produced, each proudly embracing the model’s lighthearted eccentricity. This September 21st, one such Cyclops II will roll across the auction block, bringing its unique flair to Mecum Auctions as part of the distinguished Larry Klairmont Collection.

Distinctive Design: A Dapper Microcar with Maximum Charm

The Cyclops II stands out instantly, donning a tuxedo-inspired black-and-white paint scheme reminiscent of a classic stage magician. A bold red pinstripe elegantly accents the transition, topped off by a vibrant red bowtie at the front—and, perhaps most whimsically, a full-size top hat perched above. The playful aesthetic is a key part of the car’s appeal, blending automotive history with comic charm in a way few others can. Despite its minuscule stature—just 52 inches tall, 48 inches long, and 38 inches wide—the Cyclops II delivers outsized personality.

Unorthodox Engineering and Specifications

Built for amusement more than outright speed, the Cyclops II features a chain-driven, single-cylinder Briggs & Stratton engine—the same kind found in garden equipment—delivering just 6.5 horsepower. Its compact cabin allows space for two, though only if passengers adopt a uniquely upright seating position. Mechanically, it’s a marvel of minimalism, with the added bowtie and top hat perhaps hampering its reported top speed of 20 mph (32 km/h). Still, the car remains fully operational and roadworthy, surprising to those who dismiss it as pure novelty.

Comparisons and Market Positioning

Next to iconic microcars like the BMW Isetta, the Cyclops II makes even the smallest cars look grandiose. While the Isetta was designed for practical urban driving, the Cyclops II was built to entertain and delight, championing automotive creativity over practicality. Its rare appearances at high-profile events—including the Rallye Monte Carlo and the United States Grand Prix at Watkins Glen—are proof that the Cyclops II has won hearts (and smiles) wherever it goes.

Auction and Collector’s Opportunity

This September, nearly 300 cars from the Klairmont collection will be offered through Mecum Auctions, with the Cyclops II likely to capture attention for its unique blend of historical significance, rarity, and unmistakable character. For those seeking an unforgettable addition to their classic microcar collection, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a true automotive conversation piece. Explore the full auction lineup on Mecum’s official website and stake your claim on one of the automotive world’s most unforgettable oddities.