Highlights

Low documented mileage of under 45,000 miles
Older restoration in good and usable condition
Engine and gearbox replaced 11,000 miles ago
Huge history file dating back to car’s early days
Previous keeper retained it for 40 years
Bespoke frame system to make maintenance easier

The Appeal

If there’s a quirkier and more distinctive classic than BMW’s original ‘bubble’ car we’re yet to find it. As contemporary motoring finds its environmental mojo, these clever, economical city cars were way ahead of their time.

There were many iterations of the Isetta. The ‘300’ added more power and a dab more luxury - there were sliding side windows - which makes these cars easier to live with on modern roads. Three and four wheeled versions were available and here we have an original, UK-market triple-wheeler.

Aside from the smart, usable condition, its calling card is its vast history file, amassed by its small number of keepers. The last one retained it for 40 years, using it regularly for events and shows. It underwent a full restoration during his tenure and the engine and gearbox were replaced 11,000 miles ago.

With its low documented mileage of under 45,000 miles and solid, well kept mechanical condition, this lovely 300 looks a treat.

The History and Paperwork

First UK registered 3rd July 1961
DVLA reports five registered keepers but this is limited due to its record keeping
Vendor advises nine registered keepers with one keeper owning it three times due to change of addresses
Current keeper since September 2023
Previous keeper had car for 40 years and was a Club member
Previously painted red and gold which was changed in December 1993
Large history file as shown in photos
This includes invoices, receipts, tax discs and old paper MOTs
MOT history verifies the low mileage
V5C in current keeper’s name
Car is registered as Historic Vehicle so tax, MOT and ULEZ exempt
Various typewritten correspondence as shown describing modifications
Photographs of restoration
Reported to have been regularly exhibited at events by previous keeper
Original log book and hand book as shown
Very sparing use since expiry of last MOT in 2018

The Condition

Tidy and generally well presented red 300 in unmodified trim
Paintwork is an older restoration in fair condition for age and year
There are some light chips and marks to note in photos
Bodywork is straight and presentable with some aging to note
This includes blistering to seams and localised areas as shown
White steel wheels in fair condition with some aging as can be seen
Sliding side windows and large folding vinyl sunroof in good order
Exterior lights present well with no functional issues reported
Two-tone grey vinyl interior in good order with some aging to note
We are told there are some light scuffs to interior which can be checked in photos
Vendor advises that there are some scuffs on the interior wheel arch trims
We are also told that the plastic shroud for the indicator cover is missing
Fitted with original three spoke Bakelite wheel and modern Blaupunkt stereo
Also features a MPH speedometer
Underside appears to be in good condition with no reported issues by seller
We understand the switchgear and electrics all work correctly

The Mechanics

298cc single cylinder four stroke engine
4spd manual gearbox
Bespoke hinged system fitted by previous keeper to improve engine and gearbox access
Engine and gearbox reportedly replaced at 33,000 miles according to photos
No reported running or driving issues
Used very sparingly in recent years
Low mileage is documented in run of old MOTs shown in photos

BEFORE YOU BUY

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