1959 BMW 503 Series II Cabriolet in Las Vegas, Nevada

Chassis No. 69390 Engine No. 30889 Body No. 1390 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.