UK vs Germany — 1959 vs 1955
| P50 P50 | Isetta 300 Microcar | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 4 hp | 13 hp |
| Torque | 3 lb-ft | 13 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 49 cc | 298 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 0.0 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 38 mph | 53 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 0.0 sec | — |
| Weight | — | 772 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 1,270 mm | 1,500 mm |
| Length | 1,340 mm | 2,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 50 | 161,728 |
| Original MSRP | — | $1,048 |
| Value (Excellent) | $175,000 | $65,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 5/10 |
The 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The 1959 Peel P50 P50 counters with greater rarity, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1959 Peel P50 P50 against the 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — UK versus Germany. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1959 Peel P50 P50 producing 4 hp and the 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar delivering 13 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Peel P50 uses a Single-cylinder 2-stroke displacing 49 cc, while the BMW Isetta 300 relies on a Single-cylinder 4-stroke with 298 cc. The 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar claims a higher top speed at 53 mph compared to 38 mph. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 50 units built, the 1959 Peel P50 P50 is considerably scarcer than the BMW Isetta 300's 161,728 examples. On the collector market, the 1959 Peel P50 P50 commands a significant premium over the 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1955 BMW Isetta 300 Microcar rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.