BMW Isetta

BMW Isetta

Specs Mentioned:

Make/ Model – BMW Isetta (1961)

Engine – 585cc, flat 2-cylinder, OHV, 2 valves per cylinder

Power – 19.5bhp / 29ft/lbs

Top speed – 53 mph

0-60mph – 11 seconds

The Italian brand Iso, unveiled at the Turin Motor Show of 1953 the Isetta, which is distinguished by its single front door that opens by taking with it the dashboard and steering wheel, and giving access to a small two-seater within.
The Italian-designed microcar was built under licence in several different countries including Germany and the United Kingdom. Produced in the post-war years at a time when cheap, short distance transportation was most needed, it became one of the most successful and influential city cars ever created. Because of its egg-shape and bubble-like windows, it became known as a ‘bubble car’; a name then later given to other similar vehicles. In 1955, it was the world’s first mass-production car and was the top-selling, single-cylinder car in the world with a total of 161,728 sold.

The featured car was originally imported by Wallys agents for BMW and sold to a Christian missionary. Clad in bright yellow, it is a star of the Akbarally collection.