this is a 1956 BMW isetta 300 — a rare, egg-shaped cruiser with rounded, bubble-like windows. a sensation when first issued, the entire front end of the isetta is on a hinge — drivers and passengers hop inside via a single, swinging front door. this particular model, currently up for auction, was discovered in a local junkyard 30 years ago and later underwent a massive restoration, which included an acid dip, new paint, refreshed cosmetics, red plaid interior, and an engine rebuild.
years after its production run, the isetta would go on to inspire a new generation of vehicles — the, quirky all-electric microlino, soon to hit european streets.
all images courtesy of bring a trailer
available for auction on bring a trailer, this BMW isetta 300 has seen its 298cc single-cylinder engine rebuilt during its restoration, and features new gaskets, and a 4-speed manual gearbox. at its time of production in 1955, the BMW isetta became the world’s first mass-production car to achieve a fuel consumption of 3 L/100 km, and was the top-selling, single-cylinder car in the world. the legendary piece of BMW history was famously taken for a spin by top gear’s jeremy clarkson, and found himself in a bit of ‘bubble trouble’.
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the installation showcases his vision of a home in 2035 along with three spin-off products that were developed in conjunction with the show.
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are you knowledgeable about architecture, design, art, and technology? passionate about writing and digital media? then we want to hear from you!
are you knowledgeable about architecture, design, art, and technology? passionate about writing and digital media? then we want to hear from you!
I guess, there is a large percentage of the readers/viewers that have never seen one of these…
Jim
I remember these! Please bring back the Citroen 2CV and the Renault 4!
My dad acquired one in the 60’s on a deal much to my 3 brothers and mine delight! We were allowed to drive it around our acre or so of yard and had a blast! Of course he had to take it to the gas station as none of us were old enough!
I remember very well the French VELAM before
I remember those too, beachcomber. But how about bringing back the real Mini (wish i still owned my Mk1 1275 Cooper S). As for the latest model for what counts as todays ‘mini’ – what a bloated, ugly abomination!
Yeah l’m down here in Bogota Colombia and smile at every R-4 l see. Google “Custom Renault Four photos” to see some real beauties and even the concept car.