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1959 - BMW 600 Chassis no. 140871
French collector's registr…
See original version (French)
83
-
1959 - BMW 600 Chassis no. 140871
French collector's registr…
See original version (French)
Estimate €20,000 - €30,000
Voluntary lot
Description
1959 - BMW 600
Chassis no. 140871
French collector's registration
Emblematic 4-seater microcar from the 1950s, kept by the same owner for 17 years.
The BMW 600, often called the Isetta 600, was launched in 1957 by BMW. At the time, the company was experiencing financial difficulties and was looking to offer economical vehicles for the post-war period. Inspired by the famous Isetta, the BMW 600 retained its characteristic front door but offered more space and could seat up to four people.
To design this model, BMW lengthened the chassis of the Isetta and fitted it with a 582cc twin-cylinder engine developing 20 bhp. The car also has a side door for easy access to the rear seats. More practical and more powerful than the original Isetta, it represented an important step in the brand's technical development.
Despite its qualities, the BMW 600 did not achieve the commercial success it had hoped for. Its price was close to that of more conventional cars, which limited its sales. Only around 35,000 examples were produced between 1957 and 1959, but it nevertheless served as the basis for the development of the BMW 700, a model that contributed to BMW's financial recovery and marked the beginning of the brand's revival.
Our example was first registered on 5 September 1959, but its history dates back to the early 1960s, when it was registered in the Alpes-Maritimes department under number 918 KX 06. It remained registered there until 2009, when its current owner purchased it.
Today, the car is in good general condition, with 39,300 km on the odometer, which is certainly its original mileage. The bodywork was repainted in the mid-2000s, and there are very slight traces of corrosion, which have not changed since 2009. Inside, only the upholstery was restored a few years ago. Mechanically, the engine, which is still the original one, was rebuilt in 2013, but only 1,750 km have been covered since then. Our road test proved conclusive, and we discovered a charming and playful car. A true icon of the 1950s, this BMW 600 will appeal to enthusiasts looking for an original and endearing model.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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