Motoring: BMW 507 - 1955

The 507 made its debut in 1955 at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York. When Albrecht Graf von Goertz revealed the BMW 507, he wasn���t just launching a new sports car ��� he was also setting a design benchmark. Two examples of a beautiful sports car were on display in the foyer of the Waldorf Astoria. The 507 bore a completely new countenance, but nevertheless one that was typically BMW.

The twin-kidney grille hadn���t been envisaged in the initial drafts, but it was now broad instead of high and swept elegantly across the front of the car between the headlights. Extended lines along the side, a swept-back design and a seemingly unending engine bonnet shaped the timeless, beautiful design of this dream car.

The air inlets were a characteristic feature. They were positioned at the side behind the wheels, which prominently displayed the white-and-blue emblem. The two cars standing among the flashing cameras remained prototypes. Information about the engineering was confined to key data: alloy body with eight-cylinder engine, four-speed gearbox and hydraulic drum brakes.

The 507 was built in 2 series. The first series had a different dashboard and the fuel tank was mounted immediately behind the driver. This fuel tank was covered over with additional bodywork that left little room for seat adjustment. There were 3 different engine configurations over the life of the car. Series I cars had 140 bhp, while Series II cars were mostly 150 bhp versions although a few cars came with the 165 bhp "Sportsmotor" engine.

Due to the fact that the 507 was hand made and consequently extremely expensive to build, only 252 examples including prototypes were produced between 1955 and 1959. It is believed that BMW lost money on every car built. There were 43 Series 1 and 209 Series II cars made.

Country of Manufacture: Germany
Model Type: 2 Door Convertible
Body Designer: Count Albrecht Goertz
Engine: Aluminum V8 (3168cc)
Horsepower: 165 bhp at 5800 rpm
Torque: 173 lbs at 5000rpm
Transmission: 4-speed gearbox
Suspension:
Front- Independent, upper and lower wishbones, adjustable torsion rods, telescopic shock absorbers, stabilizer bar
Rear- Independent, adjustable torsion rods, and telescopic shock absorbers
Brakes:
Front- Alfin drums
Rear- Alfin drums
Top Speed: 137 mph

Model Type: 2 Door Coupe
Body Designer: Bertone (Marcello Gandini)
Engine: Transverse mounted V12 (3929cc)