Borgward Isabella
The stylish 'Beauty of Bremen' that bridged the gap between the Beetle and Mercedes-Benz.
- Power
- 60 bhp
- Top speed
- 81 mph
- Est. value
- $11k–$35k
About the Borgward Isabella
The Borgward Isabella was the definitive German middle-class car of the 1950s, offering a sophisticated alternative to the utilitarian Volkswagen Beetle and the expensive Mercedes-Benz 180. It was technically advanced for its era, featuring a monocoque body, all-independent suspension with swing axles at the rear, and a hydraulic clutch. The 1.5-litre engine was noted for its refinement and efficiency, allowing for comfortable cruising at speeds that rivalled larger cars. Despite its commercial success, the Isabella became the swan song for Carl Borgward's empire, which collapsed into a controversial bankruptcy in 1961.
Borgward Isabella specs
The Borgward Isabella produces 60 bhp (45 kW) and 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 81 mph (130 km/h).
| Make | Borgward |
|---|---|
| Model | Isabella |
| Trim | 1.5 |
| Years | 1954–1962 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Germany |
| Original price | About $2,400 when new |
| Engine | 1.5-litre inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,493 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 60 bhp (45 kW) at 4,700 rpm |
| Torque | 108 Nm (80 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 81 mph (130 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,010 kg (2,227 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 59 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Borgward Isabella worth?
A typical Borgward Isabella is estimated to be worth $11,000 – $35,000 (about £8,200 – £26,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,400.
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
Borgward Isabella rarity in CarSpot
The Borgward Isabella is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 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.
Borgward Isabella fun facts
- The car was originally intended to be named the Hansa 1500, but the test vehicle's internal nickname 'Isabella' was so popular with staff and the press that it became the official name.
- Borgward was the first German manufacturer to adopt modern unibody (monocoque) construction for a production car after World War II.
- The Isabella's diamond-shaped 'rhombus' grille emblem became a symbol of quality that briefly made Borgward Germany's second-largest car manufacturer.