Recently restored but could do with a looking over
Sale includes a selection of Isetta Magazines
The Appeal
Originally an Italian design, the Isetta rapidly captured the hearts of car buyers around the world inspiring various car makers to build their own ‘bubble car’.
In 1955, BMW unveiled its take on the micro car taking the Isetta to new heights. Thanks to the German brand’s one-cylinder four stroke engine, it became the first mass-produced car to manage 94mpg and went on to become the top-selling single-cylinder car in the world.
Of the 161,000 examples sold only a handful were of right-hand drive inclination, one of which is this particular car, a very desirable attribute. It was recently partly restored and presents itself in pristine condition, though the seller claims the mechanicals would benefit from some love.20220708_172241.jpg1006.96 KB
The interior has greatly benefitted from the restoration
Stylish tartan-covered bench seat
Right-hand drive example
As one would expect from a micro car built in the late fifties, this BMW Isetta’s interior is rather bare. Forget air conditioning, radios and even separate seats, the Isetta offers a self to place your belongings, a gear selector linked to the four-speed manual transmission, a steering wheel and a bench seat
That being said, the bench seat covered in a stylish blue, beige and white tartan pattern is a brilliant centre piece for the cabin. Once more in this particular Isetta, the driver finds themselves sitting on the right side of the car being a rare and desirable right-hand drive version.
The owner claims the car has been restored and it seems to be the interior that has benefitted the most from that.. The paintwork inside looks near immaculate, the fabric cover on the seat appears to be almost brand-new and the carpet shows very minimal signs of wear and tear. Though providing a stark contrast to the refurbished trim is a lonely speedometer dial that reminds you this car is now exceeding 60 years old. The extra touch of history simply adds to the charm of what is a wonderful example.20220608_210501.jpg1.5 MB
The Exterior
Lovely choice of colour
Classic bubble car shape
Luggage bracket and basket fitted to the engine cover
Complete with folding fabric sunroof
The bubble car shape is one that everyone recognises and adores, and it’s complemented perfectly with this light blue and white paint design.
In addition to the standard BMW Isetta shape, this car is fitted with a luggage bracket and basket to the back. Although this car is probably not the best one to take on a long roadtrip, it provides a great compartment to store any essentials you may need on a trip out. We’re picturing heading out to the local park in this delightful model for a picnic.
Furthermore, the car features a foldable sunroof that has clearly been well looked after as it appears to be in very good condition.
Given the car is so old, it does suffer from occasional blemishes, and it has traces of surface rust especially around chrome trim pieces like the badges. These are all very much hidden when looking at the car from a distance but take a closer look at the paint surrounding the Isetta badge at the front or the chrome luggage bracket and you’ll notice small imperfections.20220708_172345.jpg1.75 MB
The Mechanics
Runs and drives with no known faults
The brakes may require some attention
Towards the rear of the car is a hatch hiding the little single-cylinder engine and running gear. Take a peek inside and you’ll see a very well-kept compartment with little-to-no signs of damage or rust.
Although the car has been restored in recent years, the owner has told us that the brakes can feel spongy and vague so they will require a bit of TLC. In fact, they “strongly recommend the vehicle gets a good going over before any use as there may be faults which are not noted.”20220708_171807.jpg1.02 MB
Summary
With a bit of work to do to make this a perfect example of a BMW Isetta, this may be a perfect opportunity to get your hands on a slightly more affordable model than a concours-ready car. Furthermore, this being a right-hand drive car it has the potential to be a highly desirable model once it gets the attention it deserves.
Notice to bidders
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