Highlights
- Older comprehensive restoration recently refreshed
- Gorgeous Isetta fully deserving of its number plate
- Desirable sliding window ‘Moto Coupe Deluxe’ model
- Superb condition with well detailed interior and exterior
- Just four owners from new
- Seller is willing to arrange transport to Buyer at a competitive price
The Appeal
The little Isetta was the product of two car companies rather better known for more powerful cars with a full complement of wheels. Before Iso gave the world a run of gorgeous coupes like the Rivolta and BMW focussed on cars the Isetta kept both firms in business. Without it there would be none of the exotica and ultimate drivers’ cars.
The little three wheeler received a shot in the arm in 1956 when tax and driving licence regulations necessitated a move to a larger 298cc engine. The 300 was born. At the same time a more upmarket version was offered with full length sliding windows - the evocatively named Moto Coupe Deluxe.
This lovely 1960 Isetta 300 Moto Coupe Deluxe fully lives up to its eye-catching number plate. Look up cute in the dictionary and likely there is a picture of this wonderful little car. It received a near £14,000 restoration in 2000, including an engine rebuild and has been little used since. The vendor commissioned £1,800 of bodywork titivation immediately prior to sale so that it comes to us in near perfect condition.
Whether enjoyed as a delightful static design object or put to work as a nippy city car, this tiny tearaway looks terrific.
The History and Paperwork
- First UK registered on 24th March 1960
- Current owner since 22nd February 2022
- First two owners were members of the same family who retained car until 1980
- In the hands of third owner from 1980 to 2018 who restored it
- Invoices dating back to 1990s
- Engine overhauled by Bromley Bubble Car Company 1,000 miles ago
- Has covered only 500 miles since the bodywork restoration
- Seller acquired the car to use for his child’s wedding
- Garaged and always trailered to shows by seller
- Seller is a collector of pre and post war sports cars
- He is only selling due to loss of storage space
- Has won various awards and appeared in Club magazine several times
- Invoices covering the car’s restoration by marque specialist in 2000
- The total cost of this work was £13,665.16 and there is a folder of photos recording the work
- Invoices for various mechanical parts, including brakes, in July 2018
- Three thick folders of history associated with this car
- Originally red but resprayed red over white in October 2023
- Refurbishment work in October 2023 costing £1,800 and covering rust and paint correction
- Valuation dated 23rd July 2001 for £13,000
- Last MOT expired 11th October 2018 at 70,363 miles with no advisories
- Car has covered few miles since that last test
The Condition
- Very good condition reflecting older restoration and recent refreshment
- Beautiful two-tone red and white scheme finished to a high standard
- Structurally solid with good floors as shown in the photographs
- Smart sliding window model with wide side windows
- Folding vinyl sunroof
- Bodywork very straight with no visible dings, dents or marks
- 10in steel wheels with chrome hub caps showing only very slight marks
- Delightful checked cloth interior in unmarked condition
- Original factory switchgear and dials and three spoke slim-rimmed wheel
- VDO dial with UK MPH read out
- Good screen rubbers around the car showing no damage or shrinkage
- Highly original, right down to the BMW-branded fuel filler cap
The Mechanics
- 298cc single cylinder 4-stroke engine
- Engine rebuild 1,000 miles ago by Bromley Bubble Car Company
- Capable up 50mph+
- 4 speed manual gearbox with reverse gear
- Recent mechanical improvements including brakes in 2018
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:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ 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.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
