Vendor supplied images
Highlights
- Rare early ‘bubble window’ version
- Engine rebuilt by specialist Bruno Soares in May 2013
- Presented in good condition - both mechanically and cosmetically
The Appeal
In 1955, the diminutive BMW Isetta could travel 94 miles on a gallon of fuel - setting a record for fuel economy that even today’s latest petrol-engined and hybrid cars still can’t get close to.
Unsurprisingly, it became the world’s best-selling single-cylinder car and was built under licence in no fewer than seven countries!
We’re delighted to offer this delightful 1956 ‘bubble window’ example which previously resided in the UK. Acquired by the vendor in May 2012 from Trojan Cars of Portsmouth, it’s since been registered in Portugal since September 2012 following import three months prior.
The engine was rebuilt by specialist Bruno Soares in May 2013 and since then, the Isetta has only been driven to and from the monthly classic car meeting about five kilometres away. The vendor took care to start and run the engine on a regular basis between meetings and we’re informed that it drives very well.
The History and Paperwork
- The previous keeper owned the car since 1993
- Imported to Portugal in June 2012 and matriculated in September
- Classified as a quadricycle and therefore exempt from the Portuguese IPO (MOT)
- Engine professionally rebuilt in May 2013 by Bruno Soares - classic BMW racing motorcycle mechanic who rebuilt the Isetta engine over the winter out of racing season
- Driven regularly to a local classic car meet during present ownership
- The vendor has retained invoices for parts/materials and a selection of spares still in their packaging) are included
The Condition
- Rare early 'bubble window' version which makes this a rare find - (ie. not the later sliding window Isetta)
- It was resprayed at some point and the colour is very similar to the original Reseda Green
- As the rear window is rare, the vendor was reluctant to risk it breaking and so opted not to remove it and repaint the vehicle
- The bodywork presents very well, as does the paint
- We can’t see any notable imperfections or signs of damage or corrosion
- The roof fabric presents very well
- Smart wheels and tyres
- The badging and brightwork appear in good order
- No notable wear apparent to the original-looking interior
The Mechanics
- 298 cc OHV single-cylinder engine (as found in the BMW R27 motorcycle)
- Four-speed manual gearbox
- A new battery has been fitted
- The oil is fresh and the level has been regularly checked - an important job as it lubricates the drive chain as well as the engine
- The vendor demonstrates that the Isetta runs well and we’re informed that it drives with no apparent issues
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ We want a smooth transaction just as much as you do and as such we run all UK-registered cars and motorbikes for sale on Car & Classic through an online HPI check to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing, allowing you to bid with confidence.
✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed on Car & Classic and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance. However, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it is always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer on a vehicle.
✓Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection
or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand.. If requested, we may refer you to a third-party shipping company who can help. For more details and to speak to the team, email auctions@carandclassic.com
