BMW 600
The four-seater 'Big Isetta' that bridged the gap between bubble cars and the modern BMW saloon.
- Power
- 19 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 58.0 s
- Top speed
- 62 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$45k
About the BMW 600
The BMW 600 was a direct evolution of the Isetta bubble car, lengthened to accommodate four passengers and featuring a conventional rear axle. It was powered by a rear-mounted flat-twin engine derived from the R67 motorcycle, providing significantly more performance than its three-wheeled predecessor. While it retained the iconic front-opening door, it added a single side door for rear-seat access. Despite its clever packaging, it struggled against the more conventional Volkswagen Beetle and was replaced by the BMW 700.
BMW 600 specs
The BMW 600 produces 19 bhp (14 kW) and 39 Nm (29 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 58.0 seconds and has a top speed of 62 mph (100 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 600 |
| Trim | 0.6 |
| Years | 1957–1959 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Microcar |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 34,813 built |
| Original price | About $1,400 when new |
| Engine | 0.6-litre flat-twin |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 582 cc (0.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 19 bhp (14 kW) at 4,500 rpm |
| Torque | 39 Nm (29 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 58.0 s |
| Top speed | 62 mph (100 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 515 kg (1,135 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 37 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW 600 worth?
A typical BMW 600 is estimated to be worth $18,000 – $45,000 (about £13,000 – £34,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW 600 rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 600 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 42 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 600 fun facts
- The 600 was BMW's first post-war four-seater economy car and featured a fully synchronised four-speed gearbox.
- It utilised a semi-trailing arm rear suspension, a design layout that would become a hallmark of BMW chassis engineering for decades.
- Because of its short production run and unique 'bubble' styling, it is now significantly rarer and more valuable than the standard Isetta.
