Description
The Neue Klasse was created to close the gap in BMW production between the economy motorcycle-engined cars and the heavier ‘Baroque Angel’ saloons. Unveiled as 1500 at 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show it featured a design by Wilhelm Hofmeister and Giovanni Michelotti that displayed elements that would soon be established as BMW’s trademark including the upright kidney grilles, the round headlights, the shark nose profile and the C pilar kink. Its 1. 5lt engine was developed by engineer and race car driver Baron Alex Von Falkenhausen that became the basis for 3 consecutive capacity enlargements. Interestingly, BMW’ s Neue Klasse introduced a special ilk of exclusive sports saloons and thereby considered as the father of successor 5-series and forefather of upcoming 2025 Vision X.
The 1500 offered was produced in 1963 in Chamonix White over Schwarz interior to be delivered to its first and sole owner in Greece prior to being upgraded with a 1. 6lt unit. In 2010 the car was treated to a total restoration with numerous parts from Neue Klasse specialist suppliers in Germany. It now presents in excellent cosmetic and mechanical state and offered for the first time in 60 years.
Specifications
Year: 1963
Make: BMW
Series: Neue Klasse
Designer: Wilhelm Hofmeister and Giovanni Michelotti
Model: 1500
Body type: sedan
Chassis number: 917280
Engine series: M10 / M116
Engine number: 5826101
Engine type: 1573 cc, in line 4 cyl., SOHC, Solex 36PDSI carburetted, 82 bhp at 5500 rpm 124 Nm at 3000 rpm
Transmission type: 4 speed, manual
Exterior color: Chamonix white
Interior color, trim: black, vinyl
Registration: Greek passenger vehicle certificate, issued 18/ 11/ 1963
