ORIGINALLY conceived by Vienna-born automotive entrepreneur Max Hoffman, the BMW 507 was designed to break into the booming American luxury sports car market of the 1950s.
Hoffman, a powerhouse in transatlantic car imports, believed a sleek, high-performance BMW roadster could rival Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz in the US.
Launched in 1955, the 507 featured an all-aluminium 3.2-litre V8 engine and rakish bodywork by designer Albrecht von Goertz. Built on a shortened chassis from BMW’s 503, the 507 looked the part, but its production costs spiralled. The result: a retail price of over $9000, double the original target and pricier than even the Mercedes 300 SL.
With a 0-60mph time of over 11 seconds, it couldn’t match the performance of its rivals either.
Only 252 examples were built between 1956 and 1959. Of these, chassis number 70080, up for auction with R.M. Sotheby’s, stands out – not only as an early Series II model with improved ergonomics and optional front disc brakes – but also for its exceptional restoration and ownership history.
Delivered new to Rome in 1957, the car later made its way back to BMW’s hometown of Munich before eventually crossing the Atlantic.
In the early 2010s, it was acquired by French collector Henri Chambon and underwent a meticulous two-year restoration. This included a high-spec engine rebuild producing 225 hp – 75 more than the original – as well as a full retrim in red leather and modern upgrades like power steering and electronic ignition.
A further engine and gearbox overhaul in 2021 ensured its reliability for the road. Now residing with a new owner in Paris, it remains in top mechanical condition.
With its rarity, heritage, and expertly executed enhancements, BMW 507 chassis 70080 offers a compelling blend of timeless design and 21st-century usability.
Source: rmsothebys.com
