1959 BMW Isetta 300 Coupe

The small, BMW Isetta had seating for two and an ingenious entry/exit system. As the front of the car was opened, the hinged steering column also sung open, allowing for entry and exit. Power was from a 298cc single cylinder air cooled overhead valve engine that was derived from, but not shared with, BMW's motorcycles. The 13 horsepower it produced was managed by the four-speed gearbox with chain drive to the live rear axle with its two closely-spaced wheels. A single wheel in the back was used for country's that gave taxed breaks to vehicles with three-wheels.

Total production of the BMW-Isetta 300 totaled 87,416. In the United States, the 300 sold for $1,048.

This example was given a restoration in the late 2000s in the Netherlands. Immediately after the work was done, it was sent to the United States wearing red with gray and red interior upholstery and trim. It is equipped with the folding sunroof which is virtually standard on Isettas.

In 2010, this microcar was offered for sale at the Exceptional Motorcars and Automobilia auction presented by Bonhams. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of 14,040 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2010