The original vehicle, the BMW Isetta 250, comes from a time when the automotive industry was transitioning from wartime to civilian vehicles. Production of the vehicle began in 1955, during an era marked by significant political and cultural events. Two key events of that year that help provide context are the release of the famous song "Rock Around the Clock" by Bill Haley and the start of the Polish October Revolution, which had a major impact on the social and political landscape of Europe.
The BMW Isetta 250, also known as "the egg with the door in the front," was originally developed by the Italian company Iso Rivolta and later modified by BMW. This small and compact vehicle featured a single-cylinder four-stroke engine with a displacement of 247 cm³ (15 cubic inches). The engine produced a modest 12 horsepower, allowing for a top speed of around 85 km/h (53 mph). The Isetta was revolutionary in its design, with a single door at the front behind which the dashboard was located. This innovative solution not only facilitated entry and exit but also gave the vehicle its distinctive look. The designer of the Isetta was Erdmann & Rossi, known for their creative and practical designs.
The model depicted here in a scale of 1/18 is from Revell and is made of high-quality die-cast material. It is an accurate miniature representation of the BMW Isetta 250 with a camping trailer. This model from the collection of Modelly member "Stingrayman" stands out with its faithful reproduction of the characteristic front door, round shapes, and two-tone paint scheme. The glossy red and white coloring is meticulously replicated, as are the original BMW logos on the front and wheel caps. The included camping trailer, perfectly matching the quirky and charming appearance of the Isetta, is also detailed, featuring small windows and a curved roof design.
The BMW Isetta 250 was a symbol of mobility and a masterpiece of engineering in the 1950s. With its single-cylinder engine and 12 horsepower, it wasn't meant to dominate the roads but provided a cost-effective and quick way to travel in post-war Germany. Its fuel consumption of around 3.5 liters per 100 kilometers (67 miles per gallon) made it an extremely economical vehicle. For the suspension, the engineers opted for a simple yet effective solution: independent front suspension and a swing axle at the rear provided sufficient comfort and stability. Weighing just 350 kilograms (772 pounds), the vehicle also contributed to fuel efficiency. The execution of the trailer in the model also demonstrates the innovative design approaches in the trailer hitch system, which were exceptional for that time.
For collectors, the 1/18 scale model by Revell is a special highlight. The die-cast material's craftsmanship showcases attention to detail and the manufacturers' commitment to authentically representing historical vehicles. The carefully replicated details of the model, such as the front headlights, whitewall tires, and period-correct windows, make it a valuable collector's item. Collectors and enthusiasts of historical vehicles will be delighted by the precise color reproduction and the true-to-life proportions. The red and white color scheme of the model represents the original paintwork of the BMW Isetta 250 and is a distinctive focal point in any collector's shelf. The miniature also offers a detailed insight into the engineering and design of the 1950s, making it an interesting and valuable piece in any model car collection.