The Isetta was not overly popular in the UK until a three-wheeled version was introduced. Although three-wheeled vehicles are more prone to rolling over, there was a financial advantage: they could evade automobile legislation and taxation by being classed as three-wheeled motorcycles and could be driven with a motorcycle licence. Isetta of Great Britain continued to produce four-wheeled Isettas, but only for export to Canada, New Zealand, and Australia.
The current owners late wife purchased the vehicle in 1989 and used it to attend Isetta owners club meets and to do short journeys. She was a huge Isetta enthusiast and it's evident in the condition of the vehicle and the record of care she’s given it. Restoration began in 1999 and was completed by August of 2000 hence the re-start of VED from September 2000.
Unfortunately with the Isetta now not seeing much use, it is up for sale so that someone else may enjoy this beautiful vehicle.
The interior of this Isetta is fairly minimal as to be expected with such a small vehicle but is finished in a very nice clean manner. The current owner has replaced the seat coverings at the same time as restoration was done and it was painted inside and out so it looks factory fresh.
All new trims were also added. The steering column assembly is of course attached to the front door on these and pivots out when opened. There are also sliding windows fitted which are really cool.
In 2000 the entire vehicle was stripped down , any welding required was carried out and the whole thing repainted.
The vehicle has covered a measly 700 miles since the restoration and it's clear from the overall condition. There are a few minor blemishes to the paint from storage and a few minor areas of blistering which have all been pictured in this listing but as you can see from the photos, she really is in fine fettle.
Any chrome work is in great condition and the tyres have plenty of tread though they may be passed their dot dates by now due to lack of use. A 4th wheel (spare) is also present.
At the same time as the body restoration the engine was removed, stripped and rebuilt. As mentioned, the vehicle has covered minimal miles since the rebuild so the engine is still very tight. The Isetta has recently had a small tune up by the owner and runs very well.
Other than basic maintenance since the rebuild the engine has not required anything further. It is fitted with a 4-speed gearbox that includes reverse. The owner has replaced the brakes and brake shoes in recent years. The vehicle also comes with a number of spare items that are pictured.
These small little cars pack a huge amount of character, and they are a sight you rarely see today on British roads.
Small, compact with 300cc engine its not a daily motorway commuter that’s for sure but if you fancy something that little bit quirky, that little bit unique, it could well tickle your pickle.
This example has clearly been cared for and has had huge amounts of love, care and money lavished upon it during its current ownership of 33 years by a genuine Isetta enthusiast. In that respect, it’s the kind of holy grail, if your going to by any model of car you could do far worse than buying an example from a genuine enthusiast.
This one won’t hang around.
Notice to bidders
Although every care is taken to ensure this listing is as factual and transparent as possible, all details within the listing are subject to the information provided to us by the seller. Car & Classic does not take responsibility for any information missing from the listing. Please ensure you are satisfied with the vehicle description and all information provided before placing a bid.
As is normal for most auctions, this vehicle is sold as seen, and therefore the Sale of Goods Act 1979 does not apply. All bids are legally binding once placed. Any winning bidder who withdraws from a sale, is subject to our bidders fee charge. Please see our FAQs and T&C's for further information. Viewings of vehicles are encouraged, but entirely at the seller's discretion.
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More about buying with us
1960 BMW Isetta 300cc
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