We are pleased to offer this 1957 BMW Isetta 300 presented in a two-tone Coral Red and Sand Dune Beige finish. Originally designed by the Italian refrigerator manufacturer Iso SpA., the Isetta caused a sensation at the time of its debut with its eye-catching styling and proportions and enjoyed widespread success in Europe throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. BMW took over production of the Isetta in 1955 and increased the capacity of the single-cylinder engine to 298cc in 1956 to comply with German motoring regulations. Offering more smiles-per-mile than most any other car on the road, this U.S. market 1957 example underwent a no-expense-spared restoration and is now being offered for auction by its seller out of Ohio.
During 2010, this BMW was completely stripped and restored by Pete's Custom Coachbuilding in Newbury, Ohio. The car was refinished in a two-tone Coral Red and Sand Dune Beige theme, and all exterior trim pieces, seals, and moldings were replaced as needed. This example features a retractable cloth sunroof, a chrome rear luggage rack and bumperettes, tropical outer door vents, sliding side windows, and 10” ivory-painted wheels with chrome hubcaps and period-correct whitewall tires. The finish is said to be in exceptional condition aside from some very minor imperfections noted on the rear end below the taillights.
Upon opening the forward-facing refrigerator-style front door, you will find a completely restored beige basketweave vinyl interior with subtle Coral Red accents. Some other details include a painted 3-spoke steering wheel, a sun visor for the driver, a manually operated air vent, and a small rear parcel shelf with netting. The bench seat bears a minor burn hole towards the center as well as a small tear on the front portion. The single instrument dial is said to be working properly and currently shows 10,637 miles (TMU).
This Isetta is powered by a 298cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine that drives the rear wheels through a 4-speed manual gearbox. With an output of 13 HP at 5200 RPM, the Isetta 300 is capable of reaching a factory-claimed top speed of 53 MPH. All mechanical systems are said to have been completely overhauled during the restoration with very few miles driven since.
This sale of this Isetta will include a complete key set and clean title. The perfect addition to any enthusiast’s collection, this beautifully restored Isetta is sure to bring a smile to the face of its next owner as well as all who pass by.
Comments (32)
Sold for $33,500
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We uploaded a walk-around video and driving video! Let us know if anyone has any questions.
Bid in the amount of $17,500
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@In2details Hi, the paint defects around the rear bumper does not have anything to do with the restoration. Pete's Custom Coachbuilding is a very high end restoration shop that wins many awards for their work. They did an excellent job on this restoration. The paint chipping is most likely from this car being pushed around the owners collection and the movement on the bumper put stress on the paint in those areas which caused it to chip off.
Bid in the amount of $11,000
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Can you tell if the paint loss from around the bumpers in the rear was due to improper prep work by Pete's Custom Coachbuilding or if they over tightened the bumper without gaskets or if it took a rear end impact? Very unusual if this was a high end restoration to have both sides with paint chipping off. Cute car but that chipping is a mystery of concern. Thank you