Germany vs Germany — 1955 vs 1956
| Isetta 300 Microcar | Isetta 600 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 13 hp | 19 hp |
| Torque | 13 lb-ft | 29 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 298 cc | 582 cc |
| Top Speed | 53 mph | 64 mph |
| Weight | 772 lbs | 1,113 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 1,500 mm | 1,700 mm |
| Length | 2,285 mm | 2,830 mm |
| Units Produced | 161,728 | 34,813 |
| Original MSRP | $1,048 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $65,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 5/10 |
Numbers favor the 1956 BMW Isetta 600 with more power, higher top speed, greater rarity. The 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar offers lighter weight, stronger collectibility, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the BMW Isetta 300. The 1955 and 1956 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar producing 13 hp and the 1956 BMW Isetta 600 delivering 19 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the BMW Isetta 300 uses a Single-cylinder 4-stroke displacing 298 cc, while the BMW Isetta 600 relies on a Flat-twin OHV with 582 cc. The 1956 BMW Isetta 600 claims a higher top speed at 64 mph compared to 53 mph. The BMW Isetta 300 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 341 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 34,813 units built, the 1956 BMW Isetta 600 is considerably scarcer than the BMW Isetta 300's 161,728 examples.