Eric Minoff
Vice President, Head of Department - US
LOT 148
1958 BMW Isetta 600 Chassis no. 129300 Engine no. 129300
Sold for US$31,360 inc. premium
1958 BMW Isetta 600
Chassis no. 129300
Engine no. 129300
Chassis no. 129300
Engine no. 129300
582cc OHV Flat 2-Cylinder Engine
Twin Carburetors
26bhp at 5,500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes
*Beautifully restored example of BMW's iconic microcar
*Top-of-the-line 600 Series example
*Over $30,000 spent in recent cosmetic and mechanical work
*Easy to drive and guaranteed amusement
THE BMW ISETTA 600
With only two seats, the Isetta's market was limited and BMW needed something larger. Management had already committed to making an entirely new model—the 700—and resources were limited, so the decision was made to create a lengthened Isetta as a placeholder until the 700 would be introduced in 1959. Deriving its name from the BMW R67 motorcycle-sourced boxer motor, the 600 looked just like an Isetta up front—and even retained its front suspension—but featured a new perimeter frame and the first ever usage of semi-trailing arm suspension on a BMW motorcar. A second row of seats and a right side door added space and usability.
The resultant design was clean and well presented—it is understood that Michelotti had his hand in it—well constructed, and adequately powered to allow for spirited driving. The ride was nice too, with the wheels mounted at the far corners of the body. Alas, the price was high—only 35,000 600s left the factory before the more conventional looking 700 replaced it in late 1959. Very maneuverable and easy to park, the Isetta was more than a novelty, and today is a must-have in the micro-car collector community.
THE MOTORCAR OFFERED
Finished in a lovely two-tone ivory over red livery, with color-coded wheels and chromed bumperettes, the top-of-the-line BMW Isetta 600 offered here looks just right. Acquired by the present owner just prior to Halloween in 2015 from an estate in Minnesota, the car was soon turned over to marque experts for a full mechanical rebuild and cosmetic restoration. The engine was sent to air-cooled specialists Rennwerke in Elmsford, New York where over $12,000 was spent tearing the engine down rebuilding it. The bodywork, paint, and chrome were also carefully refreshed.
Completed last year, this is certainly among the finest examples of these fun, quirky machines. A smart, innovative, and very handsome microcar that would fit into any collection, and surely attract lots of smiles, this Isetta 600 deserves serious consideration.
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