The quintessential bubble car, the BMW Isetta, is a relic of a bygone age and despite, or perhaps because of this, is a coveted collector’s item.
They are a rare sight on the road but provide a great deal of pleasure for owners and onlookers alike.
Here it’s represented in its most evolved form as a Moto Coupe Deluxe with a 300cc single cylinder engine and sliding side windows. Subjected to a fully documented body off restoration in 2012, it remains in lovely condition and is ready to go.
If you want to join the friendly Isetta community but don’t fancy getting your hands dirty then this could be the car for you. Get your bid in now.
The History and Paperwork
Registered 27 July 1960
Matching numbers
Original Buff logbook suggests that it has spent most of its life in Hampshire
Full body off restoration 2012, including engine rebuild, new floors and a detailed photographic record
History file includes old MOT certificates and numerous invoices
Original owner’s manual
MOT and tax exempt
V5 present
The Interior
Red with white piping
Full length fabric roof
Sliding side windows
Entry to the Isetta provides the first culture shock with the front mounted door and it doesn’t get much more conventional from thereon in.
Given its diminutive scale, the cabin is predictably limited in scope, consisting as it does of a seat and parcel shelf with the dash and steering wheel affixed to the door.
We’re not sure how far the car has been driven since its full restoration in 2012 but the interior remains largely pristine. The retrimmed seat shows no signs of use and, although there is a little patina on the dashboard and pedals, it just adds to the charm.
A nice touch is a set of stickers to show the gear shift pattern and instructions for the choke.
The carpet is unmarked and, although the fabric roof does show some slight water marks, it’s not going to distract from the fun.
In all, it’s in lovely, usable condition.
The Exterior
Red paintwork in excellent condition
Excellent brightwork
Presents very well
When you hear that someone has a cracking looking BMW, you’re probably not expecting it to look like this but the restoration has left this bubble car in fine condition.
Finished in a cheery shade of red and with excellent chrome work, it presents very well.
The wheels are also in very good order and wear tyres with good tread all round. Underneath, there’s reported to be no damage or corrosion.
Overall, there’s nothing to distract the admiring glances of onlookers.
The Mechanics
300cc single cylinder engine
Four speed manual gearbox with reverse
Drives well
Tucked under the rear is the original 300cc single cylinder engine which was rebuilt as part of the restoration.
It’s in nice clean condition and, according to the seller, propels the little car ‘like a rocket’. Fortunately, the vendor also reports that the brakes are in very good order and that there are no leaks, smoke or unusual noises to distract from the unique driving experience.
With nothing needing attention, it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Summary
If you’ve always wanted an Isetta but don’t fancy getting your hands dirty, then here’s one that’s ready to go.
Still looking fresh from its restoration, this is a car that’s guaranteed to make you some new friends.
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.
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 Moto Coupe Deluxe
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