The Isetta was an unusual microcar built mostly by BMW in the 1950s. Designed in Italy, the egg-shaped automobile was produced under license in a variety of countries, including Germany. It became known as the “bubble car” for its odd shape and windows. The Motor Coupe Deluxe like the seller’s car was noted for having sliding side windows. Though it looks nice, this 300cc Isetta doesn’t run and has been in storage for 60 years. With a little coaxing, it might come back to life in Mill Valley, California, and it’s available here on craigslist for $13,500. Gunter Kramer gets the credit for this cool tip!
These cars began using 250cc engines, but they struggled to meet European highway standards So a 300cc version (technically 298) was developed that could help the machine keep up and achieve 53 mph as its top speed. It also became the first production auto to deliver 78 mpg on fuel and the 300 and its variants saw production of nearly 162,000 units in the car’s lifetime. The first time I saw one of these was as a child on vacation in South Florida (and the last time was in the BMW museum in South Carolina).
Back in the 1950s, safety wasn’t the concern it is today, so the unique front opening door wouldn’t pass muster now. And I suppose wind would be an issue for a tiny car that weighs less than 800 lbs. The seller must be a big fan of these things as it’s one of at least four he/she has that will be offered for sale. The history of the little BMW isn’t mentioned but it hasn’t been on the road since 1964 (it was only six years old then and the odometer reads just 3,400 (miles?).
We’re told the engine turns freely, so perhaps getting it to fire won’t take a lot. The vehicle has no rust (except for the battery tray) and comes with a new sunroof and ignition. The title is missing so the buyer will have to be satisfied with the bill of sale. Do these little microcars appeal to you and – if so – what would you do with it?
Wow!! They made that many!! Posted 16 days ago.
Cool find, strong asking price. How about finding a donor BMW motorcycle for the engine/shaft drive for a really scary “ultimate driving machine”!
Back in HS( ’72) a kid and his dad put a snowmobile motor and drive in one of these. You could hear and see( smoke cloud) him coming. Didn’t last long, as he got tired of it being placed on the schools steps. For once, the mileage is accurate, and 3400 white knuckled, hair raising miles was enough.
Know fun in a head on
Is a head on ever fun?
Need one for the other foot… just sayin’ Also, just watched a video of Gas Monkey putting a small block chevy in one. Couldn’t fit a descent trans in it so they had a “wet clutch centrifugal drive of some sort. Blew that up first time out. Neat little cars but not my cup of tea.
It blows my mind how much money these bring. I have noticed their values getting closer to earth lately, though. One of my middle school science teachers had one back in the 70.s. He took me for a ride to the boy scout meeting. Damm scariest ride of my life. A Ford Pinto in the next lane looked positively huge and Lincoln like! I still have a soft spot for these though. One of my childhood neighbors had one in the playground in their back yard and let us play in it.