Selling a 1961 BMW 700

 

One of BMW’s most iconic cars is probably one that few have heard of outside of classic car enthusiasts. The 1961 BMW 700 was a stroke of genius that not only saved BMW from a hostile takeover by Mercedes-Benz, but helped it to become the company we know and respect today. It was based on the 600, whose sales were cut short by its peculiar design choices (the door was in the front of the car, which swung out steering wheel and all) and falling consumer willingness to buy “bubble-cars” due to associations with the dreary days of fuel shortages and a failing economy. Thus if you were to place the 600 and the 700 side-by-side, you might think you are looking at two entirely different machines. The 700 looked much more like a handsome conventional car, whereas the 600 looked more like a retro spacecraft than anything we call “car” today. To see the similarities, you’d need to strip both down to their internals and come to find that they share both the two-cylinder motorcycle engine and the innovative rear suspension developed for the 600, that self-same suspension system to feature in BMWs for many years after either car was produced.

1961 BMW 700 Seller’s Guide

 

While a 1961 BMW 700 might seem perfect for the classic car market, there are several things standing in the way of its success after its original production run. While it’s relatively numerous, uncomplicated, and very well built, it’s actually not a very good car for beginners in the market, for a multitude of reasons. One of those reasons is the Atlantic Ocean. Now, as you can imagine, the car was most popular in Germany, where it was made and the economic climate most suited it. This means that not many examples likely made it to the US- making it deceptively rare and valuable here.

For more details on an eternal classic, easily available or not, Alex Manos is the man to call! He and his team are extraordinarily aware of the market, and can give you amazing advice- or even offer to buy your car!

If you’re near the Los Angeles area, make a trip out to our lot and see what cars compare to your Classic BMW. We work with buyers everywhere in the US, so even if you live remotely we want to talk about selling your classic car. I’m Alex Manos, and I love buying classic cars!

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