’56 BMW Isetta: Good Things Come in Small Packages

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1956 BMW Isetta

Unique, weird, and completely awesome ride is sure to steal the spotlight at Spring Carlisle Auction, April 19-21.

When we were looking at the many cars and trucks up for sale at Carlisle Events’ upcoming 2018 Spring Carlisle Auction and this little number definitely caught our eye. The 1956 BMW Isetta is a rare find, and a fun one. We also wondered how many clowns can actually fit in this car?

The BMW Isetta is a microcar that runs on a 300 cc engine, and can reach speeds of up to 53 mph. It was originally manufactured in Italy, and Germany made their own version in the mid-1950s, with early models powered by a motorcycle engine. The Isetta has the unfortunate (but apt) nickname of “bubble car.”

If the Isetta seems familiar, you may recall that “Steve Urkel” drove one on Family Matters. OK, that might not be helping our case, because this car is actually very cool — maybe too cool for a guy who wears suspenders.

In two toned red with white, this 4-speed car is unique, and weird, and completely awesome. It has also been lovingly and beautifully maintained. And we love the way the Isetta feels both retro and futuristic.

1956 BMW Isetta

It might not be perfect for a daily driver, but it would be a hoot and a half to zip town around in this egg-mobile.

To check out all the rides up for auction at the Spring Carlisle auction, happening April 19-21, click here. Bidding can be done at the auction in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, as well as online.

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Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.


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