BMW Isetta

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Designed and built by Italian fridge manufacturer Iso, the Isetta three-wheeler caused a sensation when it was lunched at the Turin Motor Show in November 1953.

Unlike anything seen before, not only was it small (only 7.5ft long by 4.5ft wide) and egg-shaped with bubble-type windows, but the entire front end of the car hinged outwards to allow entry and exit. The steering wheel and instrument panel also swung out with the door as this made access to the single bench seat easier.

The Isetta soon captured the attention of BMW who made a deal to design and manufacture their own version of the car under licence. BMW quickly made many changes, including a new 247cc single-cylinder four-stroke engine, borrowed from the BMW R25 motorcycle, that made 12bhp and boosted top speed to around 50mph.

In 1956 they fitted longer side windows and a larger 298cc engine to produce the BMW Isetta 300, now with a heady 13bhp and improved torque that made hill climbing a little easier. The other stroke of genius that came from the German firm was to fit two wheels at the rear of the car and thus give it some much-needed stability.

This is a 1957 model that was recently imported from Portugal and has a NOVA reference to ease getting a V5C. Nothing is known about the history of the car but it has been fitted with a Casal motorbike engine at some point. Originally a four-wheeler, it has been converted to three wheels but an original twin-wheel rear axle is also included. Offered here as a straightforward restoration project, it is a blank canvas on which a creative new owner can weave their own magic. Or madness – Hyabusa engine, anyone?