2023.01.27
1957 BMW Isetta 300
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
Sold for US$84,000 inc. premium
From the catalog:
Chassis no. 501305
Engine no. 501305
298cc 1-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
13bhp at 5,800rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Swing-Arm Front Suspension, Leaf-Spring Rear Suspension
*The Iconic 'Bubble Car'
*Exquisitely restored by marque expert
*Matching numbers, finished in original colors
*Ready to be enjoyed by drivers and spectators
THE BMW ISETTA
Popular during the 1950s and 1960s, the diminutive 'bubble car' or 'cabin scooter' is currently enjoying a revival of interest - not surprisingly given the congested state of today's urban roads. Nowadays though, the Bubble's attraction has just as much to do with fashion as practicality. One of the more successful designs of the cabin scooter's heyday was the BMW Isetta, a design the German firm manufactured under license from its Italian originator Iso. The name means 'little Iso'. Renzo Rivoltas Iso was not selling well in its native Italy, faced with stiff competition from the FIAT 500 and 600, and it would be left to BMW to fully exploit the design's potential.
Although at first glance a three-wheeler, the German-built Isetta used a pair of closely spaced wheels at the rear and was powered by a BMW single-cylinder four-stroke motorcycle engine of 247cc, replacing the original's noisy two-stroke motor. The coachwork of early examples featured a side-hinged single door at the front, roll-top sunroof, and fixed side windows, while the steering wheel and dashboard were attached to the door to facilitate entry. The two-seater Isettas most popular accessory, understandably so given the limited interior space, was a small luggage rack mounted at the rear. Later (1957-onwards) models incorporated sliding side windows for better ventilation. These improved models displaced 297cc, and the 'big' Isetta 300 was reckoned capable of 65mph and 55mpg. Approximately 162,000 Isetta's had been made by the time production ceased in 1962.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
The BMW Isetta 300 is considered to be one of the most iconic 'bubblecars' of its era. This particular Isetta is an extraordinary example featuring a complete restoration by who many believe is the best in the business. 501305 was sent to Woodstock, Georgia so that Werner Schwark from Isettas R US can perform one of his world class restorations. A very complete, low-mileage and matching numbers candidate was chosen; shortly thereafter the restoration was performed in 2018-2019 and finished in its original color combination. Since completion, only 17 miles have been recorded on the odometer. The car is equipped with a rear luggage rack, air vents and stylish Coco mats. Accompanied by its file, rear basket, as well some documentation of the restoration, this charming microcar is sure to provide its next custodian with enjoyment.
As this writer can testify, an Isetta provides enjoyment both for its driver and those that you pass on the road. This is a great example with which to experience this 'bubble' car legend.
- - -
It's Bonhams day!
- - -
This year I was able to escape the snow and join Fred in Scottsdale for sunshine, cars, and music! I also drove down to Tucson to meet Doug for lunch and spend a nice evening visting with Richard and Lola.
2023.01.27
1957 BMW Isetta 300
OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE
Sold for US$84,000 inc. premium
From the catalog:
Chassis no. 501305
Engine no. 501305
298cc 1-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
13bhp at 5,800rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Hydraulic Drum Brakes
Swing-Arm Front Suspension, Leaf-Spring Rear Suspension
*The Iconic 'Bubble Car'
*Exquisitely restored by marque expert
*Matching numbers, finished in original colors
*Ready to be enjoyed by drivers and spectators
THE BMW ISETTA
Popular during the 1950s and 1960s, the diminutive 'bubble car' or 'cabin scooter' is currently enjoying a revival of interest - not surprisingly given the congested state of today's urban roads. Nowadays though, the Bubble's attraction has just as much to do with fashion as practicality. One of the more successful designs of the cabin scooter's heyday was the BMW Isetta, a design the German firm manufactured under license from its Italian originator Iso. The name means 'little Iso'. Renzo Rivoltas Iso was not selling well in its native Italy, faced with stiff competition from the FIAT 500 and 600, and it would be left to BMW to fully exploit the design's potential.
Although at first glance a three-wheeler, the German-built Isetta used a pair of closely spaced wheels at the rear and was powered by a BMW single-cylinder four-stroke motorcycle engine of 247cc, replacing the original's noisy two-stroke motor. The coachwork of early examples featured a side-hinged single door at the front, roll-top sunroof, and fixed side windows, while the steering wheel and dashboard were attached to the door to facilitate entry. The two-seater Isettas most popular accessory, understandably so given the limited interior space, was a small luggage rack mounted at the rear. Later (1957-onwards) models incorporated sliding side windows for better ventilation. These improved models displaced 297cc, and the 'big' Isetta 300 was reckoned capable of 65mph and 55mpg. Approximately 162,000 Isetta's had been made by the time production ceased in 1962.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
The BMW Isetta 300 is considered to be one of the most iconic 'bubblecars' of its era. This particular Isetta is an extraordinary example featuring a complete restoration by who many believe is the best in the business. 501305 was sent to Woodstock, Georgia so that Werner Schwark from Isettas R US can perform one of his world class restorations. A very complete, low-mileage and matching numbers candidate was chosen; shortly thereafter the restoration was performed in 2018-2019 and finished in its original color combination. Since completion, only 17 miles have been recorded on the odometer. The car is equipped with a rear luggage rack, air vents and stylish Coco mats. Accompanied by its file, rear basket, as well some documentation of the restoration, this charming microcar is sure to provide its next custodian with enjoyment.
As this writer can testify, an Isetta provides enjoyment both for its driver and those that you pass on the road. This is a great example with which to experience this 'bubble' car legend.
- - -
It's Bonhams day!
- - -
This year I was able to escape the snow and join Fred in Scottsdale for sunshine, cars, and music! I also drove down to Tucson to meet Doug for lunch and spend a nice evening visting with Richard and Lola.