Among the steady stream of iconic sports cars to emerge from Europe
in the 1950s, many share an intriguing common thread: Max Hoffman.
The leading importer of European cars in the United States, Hoffman
had a finger on the pulse of the bustling U.S. market, and his
success spoke volumes to manufacturers. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL,
Porsche 356 Speedster, Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider, and many more
owe their success to Hoffman. In the early 1950s, Hoffman felt
BMW's slow selling sedans could use sportier siblings.
Convening with BMW's Commercial Director Hanns Grewenig, the 503
was conceived as an elite grand tourer aimed at wealthy American
buyers. Styled by Count Albrecht von Goertz, who also designed the
507 Roadster, the 503 sported elegant coachwork, sophisticated
underpinnings, and the opulence expected of a premier European
GT.
The 503 and 507 debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September
1955. The 503 featured BMW's superb 3.2-liter aluminum V8 engine in
140-horsepower tune, with a chassis adapted from its larger saloon
siblings. Despite a positive reception and undoubted capabilities
(John Surtees owned one) BMW's lingering financial struggles meant
that ultimately, just 412 503s were built across two series from
May 1956 to March 1959, comprised of 273 coupes and a mere 139
cabriolets.
Looking splendid in its vibrant red paint over supple tan leather
upholstery, this French-delivery 1959 503 Cabriolet is a desirable
Series II model benefiting from a well-detailed photo-documented
restoration by noted BMW and Mercedes-Benz restorer Arthur Bechtel
Classic Motors in 2022. Chief among the Series II refinements is
the floor-mounted shifter for improved accuracy and feel. Notably,
this is also one of very few 503s fitted with 507-style fender
vents, which have been polished to complement the paintwork. The
color-keyed steel wheels, adorned with chrome center caps and
spinners to mimic the factory Rudge wheels, combine to add a
distinctly sporting touch. The cabin has been beautifully restored
in supple tan leather, oatmeal square weave carpeting, and
authentic details including a period-correct Becker radio.
With BMW's brilliant V8 engine-Germany's only eight-cylinder of its
day-the 503 Cabriolet epitomizes mid-century style and
sophistication. This fine example has been lovingly prepared and is
ideally suited for exclusive concours and touring events.
Vehicle Details
1959 BMW 503 Series II Cabriolet
Listing ID:CC-2008960
Price:Auction Vehicle
Location:Las Vegas, Nevada
Year:1959
Make:BMW
Model:503 Series II Cabriolet
Odometer:49460
Stock Number:LV25Lot_151
VIN:69390
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