1959 BMW Isetta 300

The Italian-designed Isetta microcar was built under licence in a number of different countries, including Spain, Belgium, France, Brazil, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Produced in the post-WWII years, 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 later given to similar vehicles from other manufacturers.

With space for two and their luggage, the Isetta was perfect for the UK's urban and rural roads. In 1957, Isetta of Great Britain began producing the '300' model at their factory in Brighton under licence from BMW. The British cars were right-hand drive with the door hinged from the right-hand side of the car and the steering column moved across to the right as well. Being right-hand drive meant that the driver and engine were on the same side, so a counterweight was added to the left side to compensate. Lucas electrics replaced the German Hella and Bosch components, with a different headlamp housing being used, and Girling brake components replaced the ATE brake parts. In 1962, Isetta of Great Britain stopped production of the little cars but continued to produce Isetta engines until 1964.

This lovely, show quality, Brighton-built, left-hand drive BMW Isetta 300 still sports its original Essex/Suffolk registration, 87 RPU. Being left-hand drive, it's a bit lighter than the RHD cars as it doesn't carry the 27kg counterweight. It's finished in a smart Powder Blue with a crisp blue/white plaid interior and is complete with a luggage rack. All Isettas came with a sunroof, not so much as a luxury feature, but essential for climbing out if someone parked too close to the front. The history file contains a 1976 copy of the original 'buff' logbook and a letter from the BMW Isetta Club. Infrequently used recently, we would recommend a light recommissioning. Values of these great little cars have continued to rise and, at today's guide, this little Powder Blue 300 seems good value.