BMW ISETTA

1957 BMW Isetta 300 'bubble window' bubble car in baby blue.
During the latter half of the 1950s BMW were desperate to recoup losses sustained by their expensive luxury 503 and 507 sports cars and negotiated to build under licence from Renzo Rivolta of Iso, Milan, his mini-car, the Isetta. This was first launched in 1953 powered by a 250cc twin cylinder two stroke engine, in 1955 the BMW version was launched, and although retaining the basic concept of front opening door and narrow rear track, BMW had substituted their own 250cc single cylinder four stroke motorcycle engine (12bhp) and was known as the 250. A short while later they introduced the BMW Isetta 300 with their 300cc engine producing 13bhp. In 1957 these models were built under licence at Brighton and in England the three wheelers were road taxed as a motorcycle. They obtained the general name 'Bubble Cars' which included the Messerschmit and the Heinkel (later the Trojan), and were to beome almost a 'cult' car in that they were fun to drive, easy to park and handle in traffic and their unusual but very practical design was smart. The BMW Isetta was the trend setter and besides being cheaper to buy and run than the smallest motor car, their performance was credible with 60-70 mpg and nearly 60 mph top speed.
Here we have an early built 298cc 3 wheel example with the original Bubble windows. Built from new in left-hand drive avoiding the need for a (right-hand drive) balance weight. This cracking little Isetta was first reigistered in the UK in 1961. Owned by the previous owner since 1991 it has recently undergone and extensive restoration. Attractively finished in Baby Blue with a rather luxurious cream leather interior it has been upgraded for unleaded fuel and the brakes refreshed whilst retaining original drums.
The car has been enjoyed for years taking the previous owners family to shows but it now ready to be enjoyed in new hands for shows and summer driving or will be a great addition to any collection. A really lovely example. An appreciating classic. The 'Bubble' bubble shows no signs of bursting! Now MOT and TAX exempt she is running and driving just as she should. On test drive she performed well through all of the gears and made a lot of heads turn to admire her quirkiness. With microcar values rising strongly of late we see this car as a sound investment. Absolutely any inspection is welcome. All major debit cards accepted. UK mainland delivery can be arranged. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @morseclassics