582cc OHV Flat 2-Cylinder Engine
Twin Carburetors
26bhp at 5,500rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Wheel Independent Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*From the famed Bruce Weiner Microcar Museum
*Factory correct, fully restored European example
*Top-of-the-line 600 Series example
*A must have in any micro car collection
*Easy to drive and guaranteed amusement

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

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—about 200 Marks above that of a VW Beetle—and the buying public was starting to hanker for a more 'normal' looking vehicle. Only 35,000 600s left the factory before the more conventional looking 700 replaced it in late 1959.

Finished in a lovely two-tone ivory over cream livery, with color-coded wheels and chromed bumpers, the top-of-the-line BMW Isetta 600 offered here looks just right, and upon close inspection, it is apparent that a rather thorough restoration was performed at some stage in the past. The car is a European model which has the more attractive front and rear bumper configuration. An original Trowbridge, Wiltshire county, UK registration document from 1959 accompanies the car. The current owner acquired the car from the famed Bruce Wiener Microcar Museum, where the Isetta lived among the world's finest microcars. Offered from long-term East Coast ownership, this Isetta has recently been serviced and benefits from having been maintained and continually kept in tip top shape as part of a collection of European 1950s and 1960s classics. 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.