17-Years-Owned 1960 BMW Isetta 300

Description

The 1960 BMW Isetta 300 stands as one of the most distinctive microcars of the 20th century, embodying post-war European creativity and practicality. Originally designed by the Italian company Iso, BMW acquired the rights in the mid-1950s and re-engineered the vehicle to meet German standards. The Isetta became a symbol of affordable mobility during a time when economic recovery was paramount. By the time production ended in 1962, over 160,000 units had been sold worldwide.  

The 1960 Isetta 300 featured a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine with a displacement of 298cc, producing about 13 horsepower. This allowed the car to reach speeds of up to 53 mph, making it practical for city driving. Its distinctive egg-shaped body and front-opening door set it apart from conventional cars, earning it the nickname “bubble car.” Despite its tiny size, the Isetta could seat two passengers and offered impressive fuel efficiency—often exceeding 50 mpg.

Finished in red and white paint featuring a black retractable canvas sunroof with vinyl bench seat interior, this 1960 BMW Isetta 300 is now offered with factory manuals and a clean Pennsylvania title.

  Factory Equipment 

• 298cc single-cylinder engine 

• 4-speed manual transmission 

• Hydraulic drum brakes 

• 10” steel wheels 

• Front access with hinged steering column  

• Red vinyl upholstery with white piping  

• Canvas sunroof  

• Two-tone paint scheme 

• Sliding side window 

• Interior heater and defrost 

• Reverse-sweep speedometer  

Modifications 

• Refinished in red and white under previous ownership 

• Replaced left side mirror 

Servicing & Documentation  

• August 2025: Changed oil and filter 

Known Imperfections  

• Right rear shock absorber is missing lower bushing (see photo gallery) 

• Some corrosion on underbody components 

• Worn steering wheel and speedometer bezel 

• Discolored vinyl on bench seat 

• Single tear in canvas sunroof 

• Tires should be replaced

• Dent noted in rear bumper

Ownership History 

This 1960 BMW Isetta 300 was purchased by the seller in February 2008 from a private individual in Grafton, West Virginia who claimed to have repainted the car sometime in the 1990s. The seller reports that the vehicle is stored inside, started regularly, and has been driven less than 50 miles since purchasing. 

Included Items 

• Factory manuals 

• One key