Fantasy Junction

Description

1957 BMW 507 Roadster s/n 700038, Engine No. 40037 Light Metallic Blue with Grey Leather In the 1950`s, BMW was still struggling to recover from the war years and seeking to re-establish itself as a builder of great automobiles. The BMW 507 was the brainchild of BMW importer Max Hoffman, who in 1954 persuaded the BMW management to produce a roadster version of the BMW 502 that could compete with Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz sports cars. Hoffman pushed for designer Count Albrecht von Goertz. Von Goertz, a German born American resident industrial designer, was also responsible for designing Studebakers, BMW`s 503, the Datsun 240Z, the prototype for the Toyota 2000GT coupe, and had a hand in the design of the Porsche 911. BMW engineer Fritz Friedler was assigned to design the mechanical package, using existing components wherever possible. The BMW 507 had its debut at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show, where it was the undisputed star. When the first 507`s were eventually delivered to customers in November of 1956, they came with a hefty price tag, which limited sales to only 252 units. Had BMW been able to reduce production costs, there would undoubtedly have been more 507 sales. It has been said that BMW lost money on every 507 made! As an ultra limited production car, the 507 has become extremely sought after and collectable. The 507 was produced in two production runs; Series 1 and Series 2. The Series 2 cars had an updated dashboard. Also, the rear bulkhead was moved back slightly to provide more luggage space behind the seats. 42 Series 1 and 210 Series 2 cars were built in the four years the 507 was in production. The 507 prototype remains a milestone model for its attractive styling, which attracted some famous buyers including American icon Elvis Presley, and Formula One and Grand Prix motorcycle star John Surtees, who was given a 507 by MV Agusta. It is believed that just 80% of 507s survive today. This particular car was sold at the Essen motor show in 2000 and subsequently taken to Southern California were it was the subject of a complete, no-expense spared restoration by Skip Shirley. The car is finished in very high quality light blue fine metallic paint with dark blue factory hard top, and excellent soft grey leather. This example is equipped with a restored flat Nardi wood wheel. Reproduction Rudge wheels were fitted as part of the restoration, and the car comes with its original steel wheels. Every aspect of the car; engine bay, underside, and interior, appear fresh, and are representative of an extremely high quality restoration. Today the car is both show and event ready and remains eligible for nearly every major event on the planet, from the Mille Miglia to the Colorado Grand. With the car comes the spare wheel and tire, jack, original owners manual, reprinted instruction manual, records for the restoration work, both hard and soft tops, and the original steel wheels with tires. The 507 is BMW`s most significant collectors car, as was the styling basis for both the BMW Z8 and Z3.

The above vehicle information is complete and accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time it is posted to this website. Corrections or additional information is always appreciated. All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge, and any emission testing charge. Vehicles are subject to prior sale. All advertised to be true but not guaranteed. We assume no liability for errors or omissions.

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Fantasy Junction  •  510-653-7555  •  1145 Park Ave, Emeryville, CA 94608

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