BMW 600
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| BMW 600 | |
| Manufacturer: | BMW |
|---|---|
| Production: | 1957–1959 |
| Predecessor: | BMW Isetta |
| Successor: | BMW 700 |
The BMW 600 was a small car produced by BMW from 1957 to 1959. It was an enlarged version of the BMW Isetta (single cylinder engine three-wheeler in the UK/four-wheeler with very narrow rear wheelbase in most other countries) with more power and a slightly more conventional four-wheel configuration.
The front end of the 600 was similar to the Isetta, but the 600's wheelbase was stretched to accommodate four seats. A side door was added for rear seat access. A conventional rear axle was added. BMW introduced the semi-trailing arm independent suspension on the 600. This suspension would be used on almost every new model for the next four decades. Because of extra size and weight, the 600 had a more powerful engine than the Isetta. The 600 had the 582 cc twin engine from the R67 motorcycle. The engine was rated at 19,5 hp and accelerated the 600 to a top speed of 64 mph.
In three years only 34,813 600s were produced, partly due to price competition with the entry-level VW Beetle. In the late 1950s consumers wanted cars that looked like cars, and they had lost interest in economy models. Sales of the 600 were, however, aided by the energy crisis of 1956–1957.
The BMW 700 was its replacement.
