The BMW Isetta 300 – An Improved Success
In late 1955 BMW expanded the Isetta range with the 300cc variant. The new engine with 295cc displacement and 13 hp replaced the previous 247cc unit while keeping the same concept. With the larger bore of 72 mm and a stroke of 73 mm, the engine gained more torque, which made itself felt positively in everyday use. Until production ended in May 1962, the Isetta 300 became by far the most-produced variant of the series.
Engine – 295 cc, 13 hp
| SpecificationIsetta 300Isetta 250 (for comparison) | ||
| Displacement | 295 cc | 247 cc |
| Bore × Stroke | 72 × 73 mm | 68 × 68 mm |
| Compression ratio | 7.0 : 1 | 6.8 : 1 |
| Power output | 13 hp at 5,200 rpm | 12 hp at 5,800 rpm |
| Fuel tank | 13 litres (incl. reserve) | |
| Top speed | 85 km/h |
The Three-Wheel Version for Austria
A special variant of the Isetta 300 was the three-wheeled version produced specifically for the Austrian market. In this version one of the two rear wheels was removed to classify the vehicle as a motorcycle for tax purposes. Technically it was identical to the Export version. Between February 1959 and May 1962, 1,605 examples were built.
Chassis and Performance
| SpecificationStandardExportThree-wheel | |||
| Length | 2,850 mm | 2,355 mm | 2,355 mm |
| Width | 1,380 mm | 1,380 mm | 1,380 mm |
| Kerb weight | 350 kg | 350 kg | approx. 350 kg |
| Top speed | 85 km/h |
Spare Parts for the BMW Isetta 300
The BMW Isetta 300 is the most frequently restored Isetta variant, and accordingly the spare parts situation is good. At Oldtimerteile.net you will find components for all three variants – Standard, Export and Three-wheel – from engine gaskets to body panels.
