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Elegant post-war sports car: The BMW 507.

While the BMW 328 sports car was a forerunner, another two-seater sports car treaded all-new paths in terms of design and elegance in the mid '50s: The BMW 507. When Graf von Goertz unveiled his interpretation of an open two-seater sports car in New York in 1955, he not only presented a new car but also set the benchmark in terms of design. Elongated side lines, a curved body and a seemingly never-ending bonnet were the characteristic features of this dream car’s timeless design.

A short while later, the two-seater, which was technologically based on the 502 featuring a V8 engine, also caused a sensation at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The further development of the prototypes leading up to series production was very time-consuming. It was not until 1956 that a variant of the light-alloy V8 power unit with a maximum output of 150 bhp was completed. In November of the same year, the first BMW 507 was given to its proud owner, a member of high nobility.

Depending on the transmission, the sports car reached a top speed of up to 200 km/h (124 mph). At a price of DM 26,500 plus an extra DM 1,000 if a hard top was ordered, customers received a sports car with ample space and a bodywork which is still considered to be one of the finest of all times. The list of rich purchasers comprised numerous celebrities in Germany and abroad, such as Elvis Presley, the ''King of Rock ’'n Roll''. Up until 1959 no more than 253 BMW 507 roadsters were produced, 251 of which featured a standard body. Two cars had bodies made by Loewy and Michelotti respectively. Most of these legendary sports cars exist still today, being the most exclusive classic automobiles of the post-war era.

Story by BMW

Chassis & Sales

1957 BMW 507 70048 - sold for €728,000 From the highly-respected Panini Collection. An extremely original Series II example, with its original hardtop. Delivered new to Zurich; believed only three owners from new. Well documented, with long-term single ownership. One of only 251 examples built.
Gallery: RM 2011 Villa d’Este Auction

1958 BMW 507 Roadster 70192 - sold for $1,072,500 Offered from the Lyon Family Collection. Formerly owned by “Bond Girl” Ursula Andress. Believed to have been gifted to Andress by Elvis Presley. One of only 253 examples built.
Gallery: 2011 Monterey Auction by RM

1957 BMW 507 Roadster 70038 - sold for $1,002,500 Fresh restoration with engine rebuild by Motion Products. On arrival in the current prestigious Oldenburg collection, the car was treated to a complete engine rebuild at the hands of highly respected garage Wayne Obry's Motion Products. The intent while in the Oldenburg collection has always been to have a car that was on the button and ready to use, and this has been achieved. At the time of cataloguing the car was road tested by a Bonhams sp... more
Gallery: 2011 Quail Lodge Sale by Bonhams

1958 BMW 507 70183 - sold for $962,500 Refined Series II Example. Beautifully Presented Throughout. Nearly 30 Years in a Prestigious Private Collection. One of the Most Desirable European Sports Cars Built. One of Only 252 507s Produced.
Gallery: 2012 Scottsdale Auction by Gooding & Company

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