1958 BMW Isetta 600 Chassis no. 132907 Engine no. 120458

1958 BMW Isetta 600 Chassis no. 132907 Engine no. 120458
582cc OHV Flat 2-Cylinder EngineTwin Carburetors26bhp at 5,500rpm4-Speed Manual Transmission4-Wheel Independent Suspension4-Wheel Drum Brakes*Beautifully restored inside and out to a very high level*Top-of-the-line 600 Series example in lovely Ivory over Orange livery*A must have in any micro car collection*Easy to drive and guaranteed amusementTHE MOTORCAR OFFEREDWith only two seats, the Isetta's market was limited, and BMW needed something larger. Management had already committed to making an entirely new model - the 700 - and resources were limited, so the decision was made to create a lengthened Isetta as a placeholder until the 700 would be introduced in 1959. Deriving its name from the BMW R67 motorcycle-sourced boxer motor, the 600 looked just like an Isetta up front - and even retained its front suspension - but featured a new perimeter frame and the first ever usage of semi-trailing arm suspension on a BMW motorcar. A second row of seats and a right side door added space and usability.The resultant design was clean and well-presented - it is understood that Michelotti had his hand in it - well constructed, and adequately powered to allow for spirited driving. The ride was nice too, with the wheels mounted at the far corners of the body. Alas, the price was high, about 200 Marks above that of a VW Beetle, and the buying public was starting to hanker for a more 'normal' looking vehicle. Only 35,000 600s left the factory before the more conventional looking 700 replaced it in late 1959. THE MOTORCAR OFFEREDFinished in a lovely two-tone Ivory over Orange livery, with color-coded wheels and chromed bumpers, the top-of-the-line BMW Isetta 600 offered here looks just right, and upon close inspection, it is apparent that a thorough restoration was performed at some stage in the past. The little BMW displays stunning paintwork accented by sparkling chrome and brightwork, while the light-colored interior is equally well presented and restored to factory-correct specifications. The spare wheel is fitted to the front entrance door, and in the rear one will notice a very clean engine compartment. Offered from a prominent Nevada-based collection, the Isetta has recently been serviced. A smart, innovative, and very handsome microcar that would fit into any collection, and surely attract lots of smiles, this Isetta 600 deserves serious consideration.