Isetta
The first thing that struck one about the Isetta was its shape. Yet the “egg on wheels”, as the little vehicle was described right from the start, was remarkable not only for its unique profile, but also for its unusual technical features.The Isetta, introduced in 1953, set the whole bubble car trend in motion. The most striking feature of this egg-shaped, two passenger vehicle was the method of entry and exit.This vehicle set new standards in its class: from a cylinder capacity of 245 cc the single-cylinder generated 12 horsepower at 5,800 rpm. Its construction was as robust as it was simple.
The performance of the Isetta was definitely not freeway friendly, top speed of approximately 50 mph and a zero to 40 mph (64 km/h) acceleration time of 20 seconds.The interior is quite simple and plain textured cardboard panels cover the inside door, sides, and rear parcel shelf.
A two passenger bench seat and a rubber floor mat complete the inside. The Isetta and the 600 helped BMW pull back from the brink of bankruptcy. It introduced a 700 model in 1960, a more conventional appearing car, although still powered by a rear-mounted air-cooled twin.
