Description
Offered for sale is a lovely little 1958 BMW Isetta 300, finished in two-tone Pastel Blue and Bavarian Blue. Of all the classic, collector and unique cars we’ve owned, none has garnered more attention than the Isetta. Thumbs ups, waves and requests for photographs run rampant. And perhaps the nicest aspect of that is that all of those interactions are accompanied by smiles – it’s just so cute you can’t help but feel good looking at it. This is only accentuated by the bright, tropical original factory available color scheme. If you’re going to have an Isetta, why get one in a staid standard color like white or red when you can opt for something that was special order and entirely unique?
The car presents beautifully, the finish marred only by the most minimal of imperfections, none of which appear in any the pictures. The interior shows only minimal wear with a clean seat, interior panels and carpeting. All of the chrome is in remarkably good original condition, as is the rubber, the front and rear glass and each of the sliding windows. The body is completely straight without any evidence of accidents or repairs and the undercarriage is original and completely free of rust. According to the prior owner, the car was originally from Spain and was imported to California in the early 1960s, where it was always garaged and stored in dry environments.
Mechanically the car is in excellent shape, its original one cylinder, four stroke 298cc engine starting easily and idling consistently. It shifts well, pulling through each of its gears strongly and is quite sure-footed, handling tightly on its incredibly short wheelbase and driving and braking straight. Surprisingly peppy (BMW rated the car as being able to reach speeds of 53 MPH!), the car is as much fun to drive as it is to look at. With its Italian designed space-age looks, it’s interesting to picture how the car must have been received by consumers in the 1950s. “Practical” is certainly one adjective that was used, because despite its unique looks the car is of course incredibly fuel efficient and easy to park with ample room for two adults.
Isettas have skyrocketed in value in recent years with auction examples routinely fetching close to $50k. As such, this is an excellent opportunity at a wonderful car, whether it be for the serious collector/investor, a promotional vehicle for a business owner or a unique driver for the weekend enthusiast. Isetta 300s in this condition are difficult to find, especially in a unique, factory offered two-tone color scheme.
