The Mighty Mini: The Powerful Motorbike Engine of the BMW Isetta

Introduction

The BMW Isetta, known as the "bubble car," was a popular microcar in the 1950s and 60s. It was known for its small size and unique design, including a front door that served as both entrance and steering mechanism. But what many people don't know is that the Isetta was powered by a motorbike engine that was surprisingly powerful for its size. The Engine

The Isetta's engine was a single-cylinder, four-stroke engine that was originally used in BMW's motorbikes. It had a displacement of only 247cc, but it was capable of producing 13 horsepower at 5,800 rpm. This was enough to propel the Isetta to a top speed of 53 mph. The Benefits

The use of a motorbike engine in the Isetta was a clever move by BMW. It allowed them to create a car that was incredibly fuel-efficient and lightweight, while also being powerful enough to be driven on highways. The engine was also simple and easy to maintain, which was an important consideration for the many people who bought Isettas as their first car. The Legacy

The Isetta may have been a small car, but it had a big impact on the automotive industry. Its use of a motorbike engine helped to pave the way for other microcars, and it inspired a generation of car designers to think outside the box. Today, the Isetta is remembered as one of the most unique and innovative cars of its time.