With their unique design and often unconventional engineering, three-wheeled vehicles occupy a distinctive niche in the automotive world. Each model showcases innovation through powerful engines or futuristic designs. However, not all three-wheelers have garnered praise; some are remembered more for their drawbacks than their practicality. Let’s look at the best and worst of the three-wheeled automotive world.

Polaris Slingshot

Let’s start with the best three-wheelers. The Polaris Slingshot is a three-wheeler that combines the thrill of a motorcycle with the stability of a car. It is neither and is more fun than both. One of its most appealing characteristics is its capable ProStar 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, which delivers sufficient output with 203 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque.

Morgan 3 Wheeler

This three-wheeler’s build, reminiscent of early 20th-century motoring, has a lightweight tubular frame and hand-crafted aluminum body panels. A front-mounted S&S V-twin engine produces around 82 horsepower and is enhanced by the minimalistic, open cockpit. The car’s low curb weight of approximately 525 kilograms enhances its maneuverability and responsiveness. The hand-built nature of this vehicle makes it unique and easily customizable.

Campagna T-Rex

Powered by a high-revving 1.4-liter DOHC inline-four engine sourced from Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14, the Campagna T-Rex generates around 197 horsepower. This engine, combined with the car’s lightweight construction, enables it to print to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds. Its low center of gravity contributes to its excellent stability. In addition, the T-Rex offers adjustable bucket seats, ergonomic controls, and a high-quality sound unit.

Source: How Stuff Works

Vanderhall Venice

Under the Vanderhall Venice’s hood is a 1.4-liter turbocharged DOHC 16-valve engine, delivering 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse provides optimum acceleration and a top speed of around 130 mph. The lightweight body is crafted from aluminum and carbon fiber, while its open cockpit adds to the thrill. Every seat is upholstered in premium materials, offering comfort and style.

Source: Motor Trend

Elio Motors Elio

With a projected 84 miles per gallon on the highway, the Elio Motors Elio is an economical solution for daily commuting. It features a 0.9-liter, three-cylinder engine and promises maximum fuel economy. The Elio’s lightweight structure enhances its delivery and reduces environmental impact. In addition, three airbags, an anti-lock braking system, and a reinforced roll-cage frame guarantee occupants’ safety.

Carver One

An outstanding feature of the Carver One is its Dynamic Vehicle Control (DVC) system, which allows it to tilt up to 45 degrees while cornering. This tilting mechanism provides exceptional handling and agility on city streets and winding roads. A capable 660cc engine, often sourced from Daihatsu, powers the Carver One and offers peppy performance. The car also has an aerodynamic design and miniature dimensions.

Arcimoto FUV

The Arcimoto FUV (Fun Utility Vehicle) had a special build and practical quality tailored for urban commuting and short trips. It offers a compact footprint, making it agile and maneuverable while providing seating for two passengers. By employing an electric drivetrain, the FUV emphasizes sustainability with zero emissions. The Arcimoto’s cabin provides comfort with adjustable seats and ample storage.

Grinnall Scorpion III

At the heart of the Grinnall Scorpion III is a powerful motorcycle engine, typically sourced from BMW. The power plant provides impressive speed and handling characteristics that rival many sports cars. Moreover, it contributes to the Scorpion III’s lightweight construction, optimizing its power-to-weight ratio for agile cornering and responsiveness. An aerodynamic bodywork featuring a low-slung profile enhances stability at high speeds and minimizes drag.

Isetta

The Isetta is renowned for its front-opening door, which simplifies entry and exit in tight spaces. This microcar’s compact size, often powered by a modest engine, made it incredibly fuel-efficient during its production era. Beyond its efficiency, the Isetta’s design innovations extended to its rear-mounted engine, typically a tiny displacement unit that maximized interior space and minimized overall weight. Its cabin can comfortably accommodate two passengers.

Reliant Robin

An unconventional layout (two wheels in the front and one in the rear) set the Reliant Robin apart visually and contributed to its agility and maneuverability. This layout classified it as a tricycle under UK law, granting it certain tax and licensing benefits, which appealed to budget-conscious buyers. The vehicle was powered by small engines, typically 750cc to 850cc, providing excellent fuel efficiency.

Peel Trident

Now, to the worst three-wheelers in history. The Peel Trident is one of the smallest production cars ever made. It was noted for its lightweight construction and petite size, which made it exceptionally maneuverable in cities. However, its petite dimensions translate to limited interior space and minimal cargo capacity. The Trident’s underpowered engine makes it suitable only for short-distance commuting.

Bond Bug

Introduced in the early 1970s, the Bond Bug is known for its distinctive wedge-shaped design and playful, retro appeal. It was marketed as an economical runabout with a compact size, lightweight fiberglass body, and quirky styling. Yet, with a single wheel at the rear, the Bug’s unconventional three-wheeled structure compromises steadiness and control. Additionally, its limited interior space and inadequate basic amenities offer little to no comfort.

Vespa 400

The Vespa 400, initially designed as a microcar, was intended to provide economical and practical transportation in urban areas. Its diminutive dimensions resemble those of a large scooter, and its styling exuded a certain retro appeal. Despite these positive attributes, the Vespa suffered from a cramped cabin, even by microcar standards. The engine also lacked the power to navigate hilly terrain or maintain higher speeds.

Peel P50

With a length of just 54 inches and a width of 41 inches, the Peel P50 was incredibly easy to maneuver through congested areas and fit into tight parking spaces. Notwithstanding, the P50 lacked sufficient space for passengers and cargo, reverse gears, and sufficient engine power. Also, the car’s three-wheeled design compromised stability, especially at higher speeds or during adverse weather.

Messerschmitt KR200

A post-war microcar, the Messerschmitt KR200 means innovation and efficiency. Designed by aircraft engineer Fritz Fend, its streamlined shape, lightweight frame, and 191 cc two-stroke engine deliver impressive fuel efficiency. Notwithstanding, its limited engine power limits the KR200’s performance. The manual transmission and lack of advanced safety features make the driving experience uncomfortable and inconvenient.