Vehicle Description
During the 1950s, automotive design reached new heights, with
manufacturers on both sides of the Atlantic producing some of the
most enduring and elegant sports cars of the era. Among them, the
BMW 507 stands as one of the most refined and visually striking.
Its timeless design and engineering excellence have secured its
place among the most collectible post-war sports cars. The model's
enduring significance is underscored by BMW's decision to honor it
with the Z8 roadster, a direct homage introduced nearly four
decades later. While many manufacturers incorporate design elements
from their heritage models, few have done so as comprehensively as
BMW in recognizing the 507's influence. The BMW 507 was conceived
with a clear objective: to capture the lucrative American sports
car market. Austrian-born importer Max Hoffman, a key figure in
introducing European brands to the U.S., persuaded BMW that a
high-performance roadster could compete with the Mercedes-Benz 300
SL. Hoffman turned to Count Albrecht von Goertz, a German-born, New
York-based designer who had worked under the legendary Raymond
Loewy, to style the car. The result was an exceptionally
well-proportioned and elegant roadster, seamlessly blending
European sophistication with an American-inspired grand touring
aesthetic. Mechanically, the 507 was based on BMW's 502 luxury
saloon, utilizing a shortened version of its chassis and an
all-aluminum 3.2-liter V8 engine. The lightweight construction
helped keep weight to approximately 1,280 kg, while the V8 produced
150 horsepower, enabling a top speed of 125 mph and a 0-62 mph time
of 11 seconds. Though not as fast as some rivals, the 507 excelled
as a refined grand tourer, offering strong mid-range torque and
smooth power delivery. Its aluminum body was both stylish and
practical, a necessary measure to offset the weight of the robust
chassis. First shown at the 1955 Frankfurt Auto Show, the 507
received widespread critical acclaim for its beauty and
craftsmanship. However, its high cost-initially set at $9,000 in
the U.S., significantly above Hoffman's target price-proved to be a
major obstacle. At more than twice the price of a Chevrolet
Corvette, and even costlier than a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the 507
struggled to find buyers. Although it attracted a distinguished
clientele, including Elvis Presley, John Surtees, and Prince
Rainier of Monaco, BMW was unable to achieve the production numbers
needed to sustain profitability. With BMW reportedly losing money
on each car, production ceased in December 1959 after only 252
examples had been built. This gorgeous 1957 507 roadster was the
recipient of a detailed restoration by noted marque specialists
Arthur Bechtel in Germany, completed in 2022. Finished in a
striking shade of Korellenrot (Coral Red) with an Elfenbein (Ivory)
hardtop over a tan leather interior, this 507 is an exquisite
example ready for concours or the road. Recently out of a
collection that includes numerous important sports cars, it has
seen limited use since the exquisite restoration was completed and
it remains in remarkably fresh condition. The body exhibits
excellent quality paintwork and detailing, with straight, properly
aligned panels. Factory options include a Becker Mexico AM/FM
radio, desirable Rudge knockoff wheels, dressed in fresh period
correct Michelin Pilote tires and a very rare set of matching
fitted luggage in the boot. The Ivory finished hardtop neatly
contrasts the body panels and is joined by a tan canvas soft top.
Similar attention to detail was paid to the interior, which has
been fully restored using correct-type tan leather and square weave
carpeting. The seats are excellent, showing little in the way of
use and remaining taut, with supple leather and excellent quality
stitching and fit. The fascia contains intricate chrome switchgear
and trim, all of which have been restored to the same high level as
the rest of the cabin. Under the hood, the 3.2-liter aluminum V8
engine is beautifully detailed utilizing original accessories and
properly finished hardware. Both the engine and engine compartment
have been restored and detailed including the silver painted engine
and accessories, cast iron exhaust manifolds, correctly finished
twin carburetors with stamped metal air cleaners, and proper
hardware, and a set of proper Hazet tools resides in a dedicated
BMW storage box on the cowl. In addition to the visual condition,
this 507 offers both mechanical refinement and operational
confidence. The engine is brisk and responsive moving through all
five gears. Driving this BMW 507 it is easy to see how these cars
delighted the few but fortunate owners who purchased them new
despite the considerable financial losses BMW experienced lavishing
the absolute best in quality which nearly resulted in their demise.
The BMW 507 Series II stands as a hallmark of automotive design and
engineering, revered by the most distinguished collectors for its
timeless beauty and refined elegance. Renowned as one of the most
beautiful sports cars of the 1950s, the BMW 507 also serves as a
gateway to some of the world's most prestigious motoring events,
including the Mille Miglia, Colorado Grand, and California Mille.
Its enduring appeal among collectors is underscored by the homage
paid through the 2000s BMW Z8 and the continued strength and
prestige of the BMW brand today. As a pivotal model in establishing
BMW's legacy in North America and beyond, it epitomizes the brand's
commitment to excellence in performance and design. With its
expertly executed restoration and enduring design, this 507
represents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the most iconic and
sophisticated sports cars in automotive history. Offers welcome and
trades considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/7848-1957-bmw-507-roadster/
