Classic BMWs are usually known for their handsome, understated, and somewhat boxy styling. This BMW, though, is known for being beautiful.
Styled by the legendary designer Count Albrecht von Goertz, the BMW 507 is easily one of the most breathtakingly beautiful European roadsters of the 1950s. Just 253 examples were built, making each one a rare – and valuable – piece of BMW history.
The car seen here has been with its current owner for nearly three decades. In that time, it's been on display at some of the most exclusive concours shows in the world.
The BMW 507 was originally built at the behest of East Coast sports car magnate, Max Hoffman. At the time, he was responsible for importing European brands into the US, and he's directly responsible for the success of brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche in the United States.
Hoffman felt that BMW needed a model to compete with the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. BMW developed the 507, but its final selling price was nearly double the $5,000 target suggested by Hoffman.
The 507's $9,000 selling price came in at roughly twice the cost of a Corvette, and limited the 507's appeal. This might explain why just 253 were built.
Each of those 253 cars found homes, though, with famous owners such as Elvis Presley, Ursula Andress, and legendary motorcycle racer John Surtees, and Prince Rainier of Monaco. Apparently, Mercedes-Benz felt threatened enough to offer a roadster version of the 300SL.
Now, this 507 can be yours. It will be sold by Bonhams as part of The Scottsdale Auction. This particular car will cross the block on January 21 at 1:00 PM MST (3:00 PM EST).
