Description
BMW 1500 | 1963
Highlights:
– Rare first-generation BMW “Neue Klasse” sedan
– Matching 1.6-litre 4-cylinder engine
– Manual transmission
– Recently renewed artificial leather interior
The seller offers for sale a 1963 BMW 1500, one of the earliest examples of the “Neue Klasse” range that helped shape BMW’s identity as a maker of sporty sedans. This particular car is powered by a 1573cc 4-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a manual gearbox. With 32,000 km showing on the odometer, its history of actual mileage remains unverified. The car is equipped with front disc brakes as per original factory specification.
This four-door sedan features the hallmark upright styling of early 1960s BMWs, including a restrained chrome grille and clean, boxy lines. It does not feature technical upgrades like power steering or modern braking systems, preserving its original mechanical character. The interior is described as recently renewed in artificial leather, providing a refreshed period-correct appearance. The car comes with a valid inspection.
The exterior presents well. The body panels appear aligned and complete. The interior has been retrimmed and shows as intact, with seats, dashboard, and trim reportedly in complete and renewed condition. Mechanically, the car is described as good.
The BMW 1500 was launched in 1961 and marked the beginning of BMW’s “Neue Klasse” (New Class) series. It was a major turning point for the company, both technically and financially. At the time, BMW was struggling and needed a model to bridge the gap between its luxury cars and smaller Isettas. The 1500 was developed with a monocoque body, fully independent suspension, and front disc brakes—advanced features for the time. The car was praised for its balance of performance, handling, and practicality. Its M10 engine, a robust overhead-cam inline-four, laid the foundation for several future BMW models, including the 2002 and later 3 Series. Stylistically, the 1500 was a departure from earlier pre-war inspired shapes, introducing a more modern and angular design that would influence BMW’s design language for decades. The spacious cabin and large glasshouse made it a comfortable long-distance cruiser, while its engineering allowed it to corner with more confidence than most of its contemporaries. It was the first BMW sedan aimed at a broader middle-class audience and found strong demand in both domestic and export markets. Production of the 1500 was relatively short, ending in 1964 when it was replaced by larger-engined versions like the 1600 and 1800. Nevertheless, the 1500 remains significant as the car that revitalised BMW and set it on the path to become a global premium manufacturer. Surviving examples, especially early ones in largely original condition, are becoming harder to find, particularly those retaining key features like the original disc brakes and 4-cylinder layout without modern modifications.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Peloponnese, Greece.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Greek registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
