The World’s Tiniest Drag Race: You’ll Need a Magnifying Glass to See It
Mat Watson of the CarWOW YouTube channel knows how to make our day entertaining. In his latest video, Mat showcases some of the quirkiest three-wheeled vehicles you’ve probably never seen before. While this 1/4-mile race isn’t your typical Aventador SVJ vs. Bugatti Chiron showdown, it’s sure to put a smile on your face. So, without further ado, let’s meet the mini-competitors.
Let’s meet the mini-contestants! First up is the Reliant Regal, which looks like a ripe banana with flashlights. This iconic vehicle was used extensively in British comedy shows such as “Only Fools and Horses” in the 1980s. One model used in the TV series sold for a whopping £44,000 (about $104,505 in inflation-adjusted dollars) in 2007. It’s powered by a 52ci (848cc) four-cylinder engine that produces 36.7 horsepower (37.2 hp) and weighs 981 pounds (445 kg).
Next we have the Peel P50, the smallest production car in the world. It’s equipped with a 3 ci (49 cc) single-cylinder engine that produces 4.1 hp (4.2 bhp) and has one gear. The Tuk Tuk is a motorized version of a rickshaw and uses 100% clean renewable energy. This one comes with a 12.2 ci (200cc) four-stroke engine capable of producing 3.9 hp (4 hp).
We also have the Piaggio Ape Calessino, straight out of 1950’s Italian movies, which produces 11.8 hp (12 hp). Finally, we have the 1957 BMW Isetta, also known as “The Bubble Car”, with a 15.2ci (250cc) engine producing 11.8 hp (12 hp).
Unfortunately, the Peel P50 didn’t have much luck in the first race, as its chain came off after only 50 feet (15 meters). Meanwhile, the Reliant Regal took the lead and won the race, followed by the Tuk Tuk in second, the BMW Isetta in third, and the Piaggio in fourth.
In the second race, the results remained the same and the Reliant Regal won again. However, after crossing the finish line, it gave up the ghost and retired, having won the day with a time of 22.0 seconds. The Tuk Tuk came in second with a time of 33.0 seconds, followed by the Isetta with 33.4 seconds and the Piaggio with 41.6 seconds. As for the Peel P50, it’s rumored that it’s still struggling to finish the race on its own.
