A local couple’s unique collection of vintage micro cars will be the star attraction at the upcoming 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto.
Some of the rarest vehicles in the world are currently sitting in a garage in Sarnia.
Local collectors Kenn and Donna Poore are preparing to send eight of their vintage micro cars to the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow this February. The display will serve as a feature exhibit, highlighting a unique class of ultra-compact vehicles built largely between 1945 and 1970.
Born out of post-war necessity in Europe, these cars were defined by tiny engines and quirky designs intended to navigate narrow streets during a time of fuel rationing and limited resources. While millions were produced, they remain a rare sight on North American roads.
For the Poores, the obsession began two decades ago.
“About 20 years ago, my wife and I attended the Motor Muster in Greenfield Village, where we fell in love with an American Austin,” Kenn Poore said. “That first small Austin opened the door to a world we never knew existed: Isettas, Messerschmitts, King Midgets, Bonds, and more.”
Building the collection has been a global effort. Poore notes that once they identify a car they want, it can take a year or two to find one in good condition. The search has taken them across the continent, buying cars from Florida, Arizona, Iowa, B.C., and Quebec.
Finding parts is often an even greater challenge. Poore said they acquired their first Messerschmitt without a motor and spent three years tracking down the correct replacement.
One of the most difficult restorations was a 1956 New Map Solyto Break Camping, a French three-wheeled utility vehicle designed for weekend camping. The vehicle features a single-cylinder, two-stroke engine that puts out just 4.5 horsepower.
“No manuals are known to exist for the motor, so you have to do a lot of improvising,” Poore said. “Fortunately, there are some very talented folks right here in Sarnia that were able to get it up and running.”
Driving these vehicles—many of which are under 10 feet long—on modern roads can be an adventure. Poore said that Sarnia is a great place to drive them because of the lack of steep hills and the patience of local drivers.
However, taking them outside the city limits is a different story. Poore recalled driving a Goggomobil in a convoy on an interstate highway, a trip he described as the scariest drive of their lives.
“We've heard it said that it's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow,” Poore said. “Whoever said that has never driven a Goggomobil on the Interstate!”
The collection has become a local curiosity. Poore noted that residents often smile or give a thumbs-up when they see the cars around town. On a few occasions, people have even stepped out into traffic to stop them just to get a better look.
The AutoShow is sending a professional transportation crew to move the vehicles from Sarnia to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. The exhibit will include models such as the BMW Isetta, the tandem-seat Messerschmitt KR 200, and the rare Subaru 360 "Sambar" Van.
Jason Campbell, General Manager of the AutoShow, said the feature is a way to share the enthusiasm of dedicated collectors.
“It is a rare opportunity to see cars that are very uncommon on our roads,” Campbell said. “We are grateful that Kenn and Donna's collection is part of our show this year.”
