1956 BMW 501-8

• One of the Fastest Saloons of its day
• A handsome BMW 'Barockenangel', rarely seen in the UK
• Recent mechanical work carried out

First revealed at the 1951 Frankfurt Motor Show with production commencing October 1952, the 501 holds the distinction of being BMW's first production model of the postwar era. With its styling a clear homage to the company's prewar models, particularly the 326, the 501 was a thoroughly modern automobile offering vastly improved passenger comfort owing to its longer and wider dimensions. Featuring soft edges and flowing curves, the 501 was nicknamed "Barockenangel," translated to "Baroque Angel" in English, with the car's design language praised by none other than famed Italian stylist, Battista "Pinin" Farina. Based upon a solid box-section/tubular chassis with well-proven mechanicals, the 501 was exceptionally versatile and formed the basis for a diverse array of high-end offerings from BMW through the first half of the 1960s, supported by the Isetta and 700 at the entry level.

The eight-cylinder 501-8 was added in 1955, positioned immediately between the six-cylinder 501/3 and the more luxurious 502, which had arrived in 1954 with BMW's new 2.6-liter V-8 engine. Both the 501-8 and 502 shared BMW's superb hemi-head 2.6-liter V-8, praised for its factory-rated output of 100 horsepower and superb refinement. By autumn 1958, the 501-8 was renamed the BMW 2.6, also known as the BMW 2600, and produced with select updates through 1963.

First registered in December 1956, this Baroque Angel has been experienced by just five keepers to date. A previous keeper acquired the BMW in 2004 from a large Rolls Royce collection near London, which included this 501. It then underwent restoration and significant maintenance, with some old invoices and MOT Certificates on file. Acquired by the current owner more recently, it joined a large collection of similar-era cars, and work has continued been carried out to the engine and other mechanical parts.

These rare and handsome German saloons get overshadowed by their mechanical siblings, the 503 and 507 but arguably are far more interesting. A truly rare and attractive postwar German legend, this historic and compelling 1958 BMW 501-8 is well-known in BMW circles. As offered, it presents a unique opportunity for the next owner to continue its restoration and once finished enjoy the car on the concours circuit or on classic touring events, where its power, quality, and presence will surely attract plenty of admiration. This interesting saloon is fit for any committed BMW enthusiast's stable.