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.Per the BMW Classic Birth Certificate on
file, this gorgeous 507 roadster, chassis 70185, was produced on
October 6, 1958, and delivered on October 31, 1958, to Autohaus H.
B�te KG in Hannover, Germany, finished in Federweiss (Feather
White) and equipped with a factory hardtop from new. In 2022 it
acquired by noted marque specialists Arthur Bechtel in Germany. The
car had been the recipient of a very detailed nut and bolt
restoration, believed to have been completed circa 2012, and passed
the strict TUV inspection in Germany at that time. In the hands of
Arthur Bechtel, the car received a complete interior retrim as well
as a general freshening in 2022 before passing to its most recent
US custodian. Restored 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. 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 original matching numbers 3.2-liter aluminum V8
engine, number 40203, 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
