1957 BMW Isetta 300 Cabriolet

Renzo Rivolta, an Italian, developed the Isetta to create an economical car that was a cross between a motorbike and automobile and in 1953, Iso motors launched the car.  It did not sell well in Italy and Renzo shopped the idea around to other countries.  France produced them, (Velam,) and Romi produced them for Brazil and South America.  But it wasn't until BMW licensed the car, at the time still struggling after post-war restrictions and some unsuccessful models of their own, that Isetta found an audience.  In total 160,000 units were produced. 
 
For consignment, an unrestored and AACA HPOF 2020 award winning two-owner Isetta once rescued from estate storage and now poised to welcome a new owner.  We are honored to have this little egg-shaped oddity in our “the hits just keep on coming” showroom; this is a true standout in many ways.  Microcars bring a levity to the car world and never cease to please onlookers, but also make great collectables for those with the interest…and maybe not a lot of space.  

Exterior
Despite the need for paint restoration, this is an instant show car.  A good looker at 30 feet, red really suits this car.  Walking up on the car reveals its unrestored condition with areas of discolored paint, chipping paint, dings and brightwork that's no longer bright.  That said, it is an Isetta and retains all the charm; an interesting little bug-a-boo with its wide-open round headlights hanging off either side of the bodywork, to its narrowing rear with taillights not to be outdone by the headlights, hanging off the bodywork as well.  Bumpers, more like push-bars, are seen all around gracing each corner, and are accompanied by low profile front and rear bumpers.  A luggage rack, (a logical option), is mounted to the back, looking very European indeed.  Sliding front windows and tall windows leave a field of exterior viewing almost panoramic with all the glass.  A small canvas sunroof, also in need of restoration, is seen on top and to complete the conversion to cabriolet means the folding rear quarter coming off a stationary b-pillar hoop.  We would be remiss if we were not mentioning the full front swinging entry door complete with tilt out steering column and wheel for easy access.  The 10-inch wheels have been powder coated and are wrapped by miniature 4.80-10's front tires and rear.    

Interior
Extremely simple yet comfortable and roomier than one might imagine, a single smooth vinyl cream bench fit for two, (and you will definitely have to be friends), runs from side to side…feeling instantly like an amusement park ride.  When seated and the front door is closed, the steering wheel and column magically come towards you giving you ergonomic access to the turn signals, a small column mounted speedometer, and an inside fender mounted reverse pattern 4-speed manual shifter.  A mini trio of pedals surrounds the steering column on the floor, and surprisingly accommodates the largest shoe sizes.  Red-painted wheel wells are right there in the cabin with you, and interior walls and floor are no-frills to be sure.  A framed net is behind the seats assumingly to keep cargo on the rear shelf from impeding the driver seat.  

Drivetrain
A 289cc 1 cylinder motorcycle engine from BMW rests neatly in the mid-section of the car and is rated at 13 horsepower.  A 1-barrel Bing carburetor feeds this air-cooled popper, and a 4-speed manual transmission propels you efficiently forward.  A 6.24 rear gear ratio helps get the car up to speed…eventually. 

Undercarriage
Too small for our lift we can peek underneath and we see driver quality condition with numerous areas of surface rust but nothing of major concern.  Road grime and grease by the wheels is not totally unexpected and easily remedied.  This little baby BMW has 4-wheel drum brakes, leading arm and coil spring suspension in front, quarter elliptical leaf spring on the narrow back. 

Drive-Ability
After a run of big V8's and fast trucks, this little BMW was a welcome change.  It is surprisingly easy to get in and out, and there is plenty of room when you are in.  Ergonomics are pretty good with everything at your fingertips and the little wheels pick up any imperfection in the road…giving new meaning to “being one with the road”.  It shifted smoothly, and certainly did not have breakneck acceleration, but instead a smooth buzz as I worked my way up through the gears.  I never attempted to get to top speed, but it may hit 50 on a stiff tailwind day!  It's fun to drive and will absolutely “steal the show” wherever you take it.   

Isetta remains one of the quirkiest cars ever produced and we're thrilled to have one in our halls.  That car alone is worth a ride to Morgantown and if you've ever wanted to own one, here's a prime opportunity.  It will never cease to be the source of conversation and interest and…bonus…you don't need tons of space to store it!

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.

With so many great cars, you know we have a lot to talk about, and we do that each week on the Classic Auto Mall Podcast with host Stewart Howden. Stewart discusses new inventory as well as trends in consignments and car prices, while interviewing celebrities and automotive professionals about amazing cars and their history. Tune in each week to the Classic Auto Mall Podcast wherever you enjoy listening. You can also watch on YouTube!