Chassis No. 506971

In the mid-1950s, BMW was on the brink of bankruptcy, grappling with declining motorcycle production and losses from expensive luxury models like the 503 and 507. “So the number one priority was to put a car into production that would make us money right away,” explains Axel Klinger-Köhnlein from BMW Group Classic. Facing the need for a cost-effective new model, BMW found a solution at the 1954 Turin Car Show, where they spotted the Iso Isetta—a three-wheeled car with a front door reminiscent of a refrigerator door, from the Italian maker Iso Rivolta. BMW acquired the licensing rights and production equipment for the Isetta, leading to the introduction of the BMW Isetta. Produced under license between 1955 and 1962, the BMW Isetta is a microcar based on Iso Rivolta's design, known for its bubble car shape, front door, and rear-mounted single-cylinder four-stroke engine.

This 1957 BMW Isetta 300 is finished in a vibrant red and features a matching red and black tartan cloth interior. Under previous ownership in Texas, the car underwent a thorough three-year refurbishment, which included refinishing the shell, reupholstering the interior, and overhauling the 298 cc air-cooled engine, four-speed manual gearbox, brakes, and suspension. The air-cooled 298 cc single-cylinder engine, located behind a removable panel on the right side, originally produced 13 horsepower and 13.6 lb-ft of torque, allowing a top speed of 53 mph.

The exterior showcases factory red paint, pillarless sliding Sekurit side windows, a vinyl sunroof, and chrome bumpers with overriders. The car rolls on reconditioned 10″ steel wheels with BFGoodrich Silvertown whitewall tires and chrome BMW hubcaps. Braking is handled by hydraulic drums at each front corner and one at the right rear wheel.

Inside, the Isetta features a bench seat upholstered in red and black tartan cloth, complemented by dark-gray side panels and floor mats. The dashboard includes a 100-km/h speedometer and three warning lights.

Thanks to its recent comprehensive refurbishment, this 1957 BMW Isetta 300 presents wonderfully today. It is reported that only the finest parts were used on this car, with numerous items having been sourced directly from BMW where available.