***Images supplied by vendor*** ***Notice to UK bidders: the import tax on cars from the EU is 5%**
HIGHLIGHTS
• Wonderfully styled Sixties coupé
• Older restoration with more recent repaint
• Structurally very good
• Excellent interior
THE APPEAL
In many ways, Borgward is one of the most important companies in automotive history.
The creation of Carl Friedrich Wilhelm Borgward, a driven businessman, the Borgward Hansa 1500 was the first all-new German car since the Second World War.
The Hansa was succeeded by the Isabella, and in 1954 along came the stunning Isabella Coupé – a striking two-door priced halfway between the VW Karmann-Ghia and Mercedes-Benz 190. It was a slick move.
By 1956, Borgward was the best-selling brand in Germany and remained successful until its sudden demise in 1962, a victim of economic recession and ultimate bankruptcy.
The brief period of production means that surviving examples are rare, and today Borgwards are quite collectible, especially the delightful Coupé. This one was restored some years ago and kept in a private collection, subject to a recent refresh.
It’s a great-looking and very charming car.5.JPG4.48 MB
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
• French ‘Carte Grise’ registration papers
• Contrôle Technique until 2023
• Some history
The Borgward comes with a few bits of history paperwork and a French ‘Carte Grise’ registration document, as well as a Contrôle Technique document – the biennial French roadworthiness certificate, valid until 2023.
The car has been part of a private collection near Toulouse for the past few years.
The cabin of the Borgward was retrimmed during its restoration some years ago and the beige and brown faux leather seats are in excellent order, as are the brown carpets and brown fabric dashboard top.
The door trims and headlining are in fine order, all of the delicately styled dials work as they ought to and the three-spoke Bakelite steering wheel is a smart centrepiece to the cabin.
The internal door seals are also in excellent order.
The Borgward was restored several years ago and photos of the rebuild are included with the car, showing a full strip-down and respray in bare metal. The sills and floors were replaced at the same time.
The paint finish is excellent and there is no damage of note other than a small dent near the exhaust pipe outlet. There’s no visible corrosion on the exterior, while underneath there’s a smattering of surface rust on the spare wheel well, but it’s otherwise spotless.
The chrome bumpers, grille and mirrors are very good, while the lower side trims and window surrounds are in fair to good order, while the track rod ends on both sides have recently been replaced.
The Borgward has its original engine and transmission, both reported as being in good working order with no known faults. Similarly, the brakes and suspension are said by the vendor to be in fine order.
There is a very slight oil leak from the engine.
The Solex carburettor has recently been overhauled and the ignition system has been renewed.
This is a fine example of one of the best-looking cars of the 1960s and is very well-presented inside and out – it’s a rare and beautiful vehicle that would make a fine addition to any collection, and is described as in great condition throughout.
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