Vehicle Details
- Year: 1956
- Make: BMW
- Model: Isetta 300
- VIN: 1206547322
- Mileage: 16,973
- Transmission: Manual
- Title Status: Clean
- Color: Japan Red
- Seller: gpmotors
- Seller Type: Dealer (Consignment)
- Location: Portland, OR 97205
- Dealer Fees: $135
- Lot #: V-0012299
Up for auction is this 1956 BMW Isetta 300 finished in Japan Red. Originally designed by the Italian refrigerator manufacturer Iso SpA., the Isetta kicked off the microcar sensation with its eye-catching styling, and enjoyed widespread success in Europe throughout the 1950s and early 1960s. This 1956 "bubble window" example was acquired by the current owner from a museum in 2012 and was previously treated to a complete frame-off restoration in its original specifications. Having spent its life on display in a private collection ever since, this Isetta is now being offered for auction by its seller out of Oregon.
This Isetta was previously restored and refinished in its originally specified color of Japan Red. It features the desirable "bubble window" (Z-molding) configuration which is rarer than the more common sliding window version. Details include a retractable grey soft top, chrome bumpers, and 10” chrome wheels dressed in wide period-correct BF Goodrich whitewall tires. A collection of detailed images is provided in the photo gallery.
Inside, the cabin has been restored to its original specifications with off-white basketweave leatherette upholstered seating, and optional grey trim panels. The painted three-spoke steering wheel swings out with the forward-facing refrigerator-style door to allow entry. Other features include a rubber floormat, a single gauge housing a speedometer and 5-digit odometer, a red leatherette storage pouch on the passenger side, pop-out front quarter vents, and a rear parcel shelf. The seller reports the gauge and lighting to be fully functional.
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 can reach a factory-claimed top speed of 53 MPH. The car is said to have undergone a comprehensive restoration and there are no outstanding maintenance items reported at this time. The seller also notes that there are no signs of rust to be found.
This sale will include original sales literature and a clean title. This nicely restored bubble-window Isetta 300 would make a unique and charming addition to any car collection, do not miss your chance to become the next owner.
Auction Results
- Sold for: $33,000
- Auction End: Aug 17, 2021 07:32:07PM UTC
- Number of Bids: 22
Comments (27)
Sold for $33,000
Bid in the amount of $33,000
Bid in the amount of $32,250
Bid in the amount of $31,500
Bid in the amount of $30,500
Bid in the amount of $30,000
Bid in the amount of $29,000
Bid in the amount of $28,500
Bid in the amount of $27,500
Bid in the amount of $26,500
Bid in the amount of $25,000
Bid in the amount of $24,000
Bid in the amount of $22,000
Bid in the amount of $20,500
Bid in the amount of $20,000
Bid in the amount of $19,500
Bid in the amount of $18,750
@Jimlerbs Someone might have labeled the keys wrong. Acording to the registration of the vehicle, it is a 1956 production year.
@Gulfblue20 Registration for the car shows 1956
Bid in the amount of $17,500
Bid in the amount of $15,000
Bid in the amount of $12,500
Have we determined if this is a 1957 or 1956 yet?
I believe the dealer key tag has it labeled as a 1957.
The listing says 1956.
Build date, which doesn’t resolve either, has it as a 1956 build.
Bid in the amount of $10,000
Bid in the amount of $9,138
It is a 1957 model, but built end of 1956 as the plate shows, right ?
Bid in the amount of $8,888