1958 BMW 501-8 Sedan

The BMW 501 was introduced at the 1951 Frankfurt Motor Show and entered full production the following year. They were affectionately nicknamed 'Barockenangel' or 'Baroque Angel' in recognition of their rounded body lines. The design drew its inspiration from the pre-war BMW models while featuring a longer and wider body. These were elegant, well-built, comfortable vehicles with a price to match and begat the 502 V-8 of 1954, which formed the basis for the exclusive Count Albrecht Goertz-penned 503 and 507.

The design of the 501 was segmented into the topline 501 A and the de-contented 501 B forms, providing two price points. The model would continue to be the company's large model through 1963 with further developments happening along the way, including the 2.6- and 3.2-liter V8 power.

The BMW 501 was the first model introduced by BMW to the public after World War II. Power was initially from a 2-liter six-cylinder engine offering 60 horsepower.

This example was discovered in 2005 in Brussels, Belgium. Soon after, it was purchased by a BMW collector from Colorado. Prior to importation to the United States, it was sent to Erwin Brummer and Son, for a thorough evaluation. The owner decided to completely restore the 501 A to its former glory and the Brummers were commissioned to restore the car's entire drivetrain, brakes, and electrical system. The restoration of the body and interior was entrusted to Marek Matejcek of Pilsen in the Czech Republic.

Features found on this car include a Becker Mexico radio, VDO outside-temperature thermometer, and a full Golde sliding canvas sunroof.

The car is powered by an overhead-valve, alloy V-8 engine displacing 2580cc and offering 110 horsepower. There is a four-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. It is finished in silver with a blue leather interior.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2014