It caused a sensation at Turin in 1953 and became so popular that seven countries had their own unique iterations of the car manufactured. We’re of course referring to Italy’s Iso Isetta. The “bubble car,” as it was affectionally nicknamed, was the product of a social environment focused on prudent, resourceful reconstruction after the devastation wrought upon Europe during the second world war. Miniature proportions meant there was a lesser need for metal and resources, and a modest displacement motorcycle engine sipped fuel. These were the keystones that formed the foundation of the tiny two-seater (perhaps three if one was a child). However, it was the quirky aspects of the Isetta that made it such an affectionally endearing automobile. The stout, misaligned wheelbase, the forward swinging door, the large glass windows, and the fabric sunroof were just some of the charms the Isetta offered to buyers.
The Isetta proved to be such a hit with Italian buyers that BMW, who was struggling to retain ownership of itself and turn a profit in the ‘50s, took notice. In 1955, BMW took a chance and licensed the Isetta from Iso to begin their own microcar manufacturing. To make it their own, BMW replaced nearly every component of the car with their personal designs, so parts would not be interchangeable. They also installed their single-cylinder air-cooled BMW motorcycle motor – formerly a 250cc unit. In 1956, BMW revised the design once more, and power was increased because of a 50cc bump that now created the new BMW Isetta 300. Our example for sale today is a 1958 version of that second generation.
The motor, provided during the restoration by Isetta R Us, is a rebuilt block that is not original to the car but is in exceptional operating condition. Plus, an oil service was recently performed, so the fluid is fresh. The seller notes that there are some moisture and wetness spots on the block and sump plate. However, it is nothing substantial enough to cause accumulation drips on to the garage floor.
Never intended for high speeds, the 13 horsepower motor does provide enough potency to propel the passengers to a rate of around 50 miles-per-hour. Moreover, since Europeans at the time of production were still rationing fuel, the Isetta was designed to sip. In 1955, BMW won merit for a fuel consumption rating of 94 miles-per-gallon; so stops at the station for petrol will be few and far between. Joined to the motor is a four-speed (with reverse) transmission, all of which, including the passenger side-mounted cooling fan (hidden behind a body panel cover), reside behind the passenger compartment making this a rear-engine, rear-wheel drive car.
Aside from refinishing the motor, Isetta R Us also performed quality restoration work on the interior and exterior of the 300. Repainted six years ago in a two-tone blue and white, the paint is still vivid but does have some flaws. The headlights mounted to the sides of the doors are unique for the BMW variants of the Isetta. Both lights are still clear; however, the turn signal lenses below do show discoloration and small cracking due to sunlight exposure. 10” split-rim polished steel wheels with whitewall tires and the BMW roundels in the center pair nicely to the chrome brightwork, the U.S. market bumper overriders, and rear decklid luggage rack.
Inside, the original vinyl has been recovered with a fine, supple white leather. The wooden shift lever, steering wheel, instrument (speedometer), and control levers are all in excellent condition and work as intended. Modern sound-deadening material has been used to upholster the floorboard, and the carpeting on the passenger side has become slightly tarnished. Included in the sale is an original sales brochure that provides information and specifications and the owner has recently installed a fresh battery. So if you are looking to get back to BMW’s roots or have the desire for a unique 50s driver, this is the one!
