1958 BMW ISETTA 600

1958 BMW ISETTA 600
Sold for US$ 37,400 Including Commission
Bonham's Auction, Amelia Island, Florida 2015
Chassis no. 124770
582cc OHV Flat 2-Cylinder Engine
Twin Carburetors
26bhp at 5,500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes
*Well presented example of BMW's iconic microcar
*Lovely color combination
*Top-of-the-line 600 Series example
*A must have in any micro car collection
*Easy to drive and guaranteed amusement
THE BMW ISETTA
The Iso Isetta, which BMW built under license from 1955 to 1962, helped forge a new market segment for microcars that proved instrumental in getting Europe back on wheels. Designed by a company that made refrigerators, and looking like one itself, the little Isetta proved to be a sales success for the brief period when microcars were in vogue.
With only two seats, the Isetta's market was limited and BMW needed something larger. Management had already committed to making an entirely new model—the 700—and resources were limited, so the decision was made to create a lengthened Isetta as a placeholder until the 700 would be introduced in 1959. Deriving its name from the BMW R67 motorcycle-sourced boxer motor, the 600 looked just like an Isetta up front—and even retained its front suspension—but featured a new perimeter frame and the first ever usage of semi-trailing arm suspension on a BMW motorcar. A second row of seats and a right side door added space and usability.
The resultant design was clean and well presented—it is understood that Michelotti had his hand in it—well constructed, and adequately powered to allow for spirited driving. The ride was nice too, with the wheels mounted at the far corners of the body. Alas, the price was high—about 200 Marks above that of a VW Beetle—and the buying public was starting to hanker for a more 'normal' looking vehicle. Only 35,000 600s left the factory before the more conventional looking 700 replaced it in late 1959. Very maneuverable and easy to park, the Isetta was more than a novelty, and today is a must-have in the micro-car collector community.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
Finished in a lovely two-tone ivory over red livery, with color-coded wheels and chromed bumperettes, the top-of-the-line BMW Isetta 600 offered here looks just right, and upon close inspection, it is apparent that a rather thorough restoration was performed at some stage in the past. Offered from long-term East Coast ownership, this Isetta has recently been serviced, and benefits from having been kept in a fine collection of European 1950s and 1960s classics with a dedicated service and maintenance staff. A smart, innovative, and very handsome microcar that would fit into any collection, and surely attract lots of smiles, this Isetta 600 deserves serious consideration.
More Info Here: www.bonhams.com/auctions/22530/lot/162/?category=results&length=90&page=2
Robert Myrick Photography