Vehicle Description
Popular during the 1950s and 1960s, the diminutive 'bubble car' or
'cabin scooter' is currently enjoying a revival of interest - not
surprisingly, given the congested state of today's urban roads.
This charming 1958 BMW Isetta 300 is an excellent example of this
iconic design. Today, the Isetta's attraction has just as much to
do with fashion as practicality. One of the more successful designs
of the cabin scooter's heyday was the BMW Isetta, a design the
German firm manufactured under license from its Italian originator,
Iso. The name means 'little Iso'. Renzo Rivolta's Iso was not
selling well in its native Italy, and it was faced with stiff
competition from the FIAT 500 and 600, and it would be left to BMW
to fully exploit the design's potential.
Although at first glance a three-wheeler, this German-built Isetta
uses a pair of closely spaced wheels at the rear and is powered by
a BMW single-cylinder four-stroke motorcycle engine of 247cc,
replacing the earlier Isetta's noisy two-stroke motor. The
coachwork of early examples featured a side-hinged single door at
the front, roll-top sunroof, and fixed side windows, while the
steering wheel and dashboard were attached to the door to
facilitate entry.
The two-seater Isetta's most popular accessory, understandably so
given the limited interior space, was a small luggage rack mounted
at the rear. Later (1957-onwards) models such as this car
incorporated sliding side windows for better ventilation. These
improved models displaced 297cc, and the 'big' Isetta 300 was said
to be capable of 65mph and 55mpg. Approximately 162,000 Isettas had
been made by the time production ceased in 1962. This little BMW
displays quality paintwork accented by sparkling chrome and
brightwork, while the light-colored interior is equally well
presented and restored to original specifications.
Highlights:
*298cc 1-Cylinder Engine
*Single Carburetor
*13bhp at 5,800rpm
*4-Speed Manual Transmission
*4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
*Swing-Arm Front Suspension, Leaf-Spring Rear Suspension
*Luggage rack
*Sunroof
Finished in a fun red color with ivory wheels and chromed bumpers,
this 1958 BMW Isetta 300 offered here looks just right. Upon close
inspection, it is apparent that a thorough restoration was
performed at some point. This smart, innovative, and handsome
microcar would fit into any collection and attract many smiles.
Call today!
