Vehicle Description
Chassis No. 506971
In the mid-1950s, BMW was on the brink of bankruptcy, grappling
with declining motorcycle production and losses from expensive
luxury models like the 503 and 507. "So the number one priority was
to put a car into production that would make us money right away,"
explains Axel Klinger-K�hnlein from BMW Group Classic. Facing the
need for a cost-effective new model, BMW found a solution at the
1954 Turin Car Show, where they spotted the Iso Isetta-a
three-wheeled car with a front door reminiscent of a refrigerator
door, from the Italian maker Iso Rivolta. BMW acquired the
licensing rights and production equipment for the Isetta, leading
to the introduction of the BMW Isetta. Produced under license
between 1955 and 1962, the BMW Isetta is a microcar based on Iso
Rivolta's design, known for its bubble car shape, front door, and
rear-mounted single-cylinder four-stroke engine.
This 1957 BMW Isetta 300 is finished in a vibrant red and features
a matching red and black tartan cloth interior. Under previous
ownership in Texas, the car underwent a thorough three-year
refurbishment, which included refinishing the shell, reupholstering
the interior, and overhauling the 298 cc air-cooled engine,
four-speed manual gearbox, brakes, and suspension. The air-cooled
298 cc single-cylinder engine, located behind a removable panel on
the right side, originally produced 13 horsepower and 13.6 lb-ft of
torque, allowing a top speed of 53 mph.
The exterior showcases factory red paint, pillarless sliding
Sekurit side windows, a vinyl sunroof, and chrome bumpers with
overriders. The car rolls on reconditioned 10? steel wheels with
BFGoodrich Silvertown whitewall tires and chrome BMW hubcaps.
Braking is handled by hydraulic drums at each front corner and one
at the right rear wheel.
Inside, the Isetta features a bench seat upholstered in red and
black tartan cloth, complemented by dark-gray side panels and floor
mats. The dashboard includes a 100-km/h speedometer and three
warning lights.
Thanks to its recent comprehensive refurbishment, this 1957 BMW
Isetta 300 presents wonderfully today. It is reported that only the
finest parts were used on this car, with numerous items having been
sourced directly from BMW where available.
