1958 BMW Isetta 600

The license-built Isetta 300 provided economical transportation and seating for two occupants. It helped propel German postwar reconstruction and aided in sustaining BMW's financial strength, allowing the venerable Bavarian company to head-off a potential Mercedes-Benz takeover. At the time, an entirely new BMW model was in the works, dubbed the 700, but it would not be ready until 1959. In the meantime, a four-passenger model was needed to broaden the appeal to a wider market of buyers. To that end, the Isetta was lengthened (with a 66.9-inch wheelbase) and a BMW R67 motorcycle-sourced boxer motor was installed. The air-cooled 582cc, two-cylinder engine had a factory-quoted 64-mph top speed. The engine was paired with a four-speed manual transmission with synchromesh and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes provided the stopping power.

At the front, the 600 looked like the original Isetta and even retained its front suspension. It did, however, employ a new perimeter frame and the first-ever usage of semi-trailing arm suspension on a BMW motorcar. A right-side door and the second row of seating increased its usability.

The Isetta 600 had adequate power, was well constructed, and had a nice ride, with the wheels mounted at the far corners of the body. Sales were initially strong, fostered by a host of economically-minded consumers, Middle Eastern instability, and fuel shortages. Its Achilles Heel was its high price tag, about 200 Marks above that of a Volkswagen Beetle. Approximately 34,000 examples of the 600 left the factory before the more conventional-looking 700 replaced it in late 1959.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2022