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, a 1957 BMW Isetta 300 cabriolet with a title verified 18,030 actual miles. 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 collectibles for those with an endless interest but limited space.
Exterior
Red might be the most common and some say, the best color for an Isetta and this one 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 tail lights externally mounted as well. Bumpers, more like push bars, are seen all around gracing each corner, and are accompanied by low profile front and rear bumpers and everything is chrome and shiny. A luggage rack, (a logical option), is mounted to the back, looking very European indeed and gravel guards protect the paint behind the front wheels. Sliding and tall side windows leave a field of exterior viewing almost panoramic when coupled with the windshield. A small canvas sunroof, in good shape if not a bit dirty, 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. Some of the 10-inch wheels show definite patina and some surface rust and all are wrapped by miniature 4.80-10's white wall tires. Overall, the red paint is very good with blemishes that include a few scuffs and chips.
Interior
Extremely simple yet comfortable and roomier than one might imagine, a single smooth vinyl red 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. We note some hairline cracks in the white plastic steering wheel. A trio of mini 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 with some worn red carpet in the footwell. The package shelf behind the seats is covered in red carpet and is in clean condition.
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 conditions with numerous areas of surface rust but nothing of major concern. Wheel components are fairly clean. This baby BMW has drum brakes at each end, leading arm and coil spring suspension in front, quarter elliptical leaf spring on the narrow back. A single exhaust travels a short distance through a stock style muffler and terminates under the car through a short tailpipe.
Drive-Ability
As per the notes from our consignor's mechanic. This car does run and drive but will need a new carburetor, or at least a rebuild along with a new fuel shut off and a new fuel filter installed as there is not presently one inline.
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 to see our inventory, and if you've ever wanted to own an Isetta, 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. There is no guarantee of mileage. A $299 Dealer Administrative fee is not included in the advertised price.
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!
