1959 Borgward Isabella Coupe

Largely Original Car That Is Fully Intact

Full Shop Manuals and Original Brochure Included

Runs and Drives- Excellent Restoration Candidate

67,323 Miles on Odometer (functional)

VIN: 365826

April 1959 Build Date

4 Cylinder OHV 75 x 84.5 mm - 1493 cc

82bhp

Solex Register Carb

Spare Transmission Included with car.

**PLEASE BE SURE TO VIEW OUR YouTube VIDEO FOR THE MOST IN DEPTH DETAIL AND DRIVING VIDEO**

Brochure Description:
“This car is for the Sports Minded individual. It will indeed make his heart beat faster. The streamlined lower design brings the 1.5 liter 82 H. P. engine to its full realization. This is the car for those who want the best. Everything is finished in perfect taste.
Reclining individual front Seats with foam rubber cushions. Two-tone Side panels. Crash pad. All Controls on dashboard are internationally recognized. Heater, Cigarette lighter, direction Signals and windshield washer are standard equipment.”

In 1954, Borgward introduced the Isabella. Originally intended to be named the Hansa 1500, the 2-door saloon eventually adopted the test vehicle's moniker, Isabella, due to fervent support from employees and the press. Despite this, the Hansa 1500 continued to be used in the initial years. In 1957, Borgward made the decision to manufacture a sleeker 2+2 coupé, a move appreciated by many Borgward enthusiasts who consider it the most aesthetically pleasing model the brand ever produced.

The Borgward comes with a substantial price tag, surpassing its Ford and Opel counterparts in cost but falling slightly below the price range of a Mercedes-Benz. The innovative monocoque bodywork, ahead of its time, received accolades from the press for its uniqueness and quality.

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION

This 1959 Coupe had its initial ownership under L. Phillip Van Hartesveldt from Holland, Michigan. Evidently, the vehicle actively participated in various rallies and runs within Western Michigan, suggesting its affiliation with the Western Michigan Sports Car Society, as indicated by numerous dash badges. Subsequently, the car came into the possession of Bernard Jay Laarman, a direct descendant of Holland, Michigan's founding family. Laarman received recognition from the esteemed Gilmore Car Museum, situated in close proximity to his hometown. Presently, the car remains in the Midwest, seemingly having spent its entire existence in the region. Acquiring this remarkable piece of German automotive history was a source of great excitement for us.

STRUCTURE

This Coupe presents an ideal opportunity for restoration, displaying a fully intact condition with a robust monocoque frame. While there are rusted rockers requiring attention, the overall construction of the car lends itself to a straightforward restoration. The body exhibits no significant damage or extensive repairs, boasting excellent panel fitment. The doors, hood, and trunk open and close seamlessly, aligning evenly. Original glass and lenses are apparent, although we suspect the windshield may have been replaced at some point. Notably, the driver's side door glass exhibits rubbing marks from the belt molding.

All lights are present and operational, and while the hardware and trim display some pitting, they are primed for replating. Emblems and grill components are intact and in good condition. Previous repairs are evident on a couple of panels, particularly the lower forward sections of both quarter panels. The trunk area is solid with minimal rusting in corners, and the spare tire pan is in excellent condition. The floors are sturdy and present well in their current state.

INTERIOR

The interior showcases an entirely original survivor state with original fabrics and materials. The seat releases function flawlessly, and the toggle switches on the dashboard move smoothly, emitting a loud click when depressed. The seats are in excellent condition and may be worth preserving in their current state. However, the carpets are visibly worn and require replacement, although the carpet kit seems complete, extending into the trunk. Some refurbishment is necessary for certain wood trim elements. The dashboard is well-maintained without any damage, and the gauges are clear and present. In summary, the interior maintains the authentic appearance of a 67,000-mile survivor.

MECHANICALS

Beneath the hood, the 4 Cylinder OHC engine is prominently featured, retaining much, if not all, of its original components, including the Solex Carb, fuel pump, and even the radiator cap. The odometer displays 67,323 miles on its 5-digit scale, but confirmation or denial of any rollovers remains uncertain. The odometer is properly functioning. The engine operates smoothly and quietly, devoid of smoke or any discernible valve train noises. It revs up seamlessly, emitting a gentle idle reminiscent of a sewing machine.

Although there is some debris in the fuel cell, the car currently runs and drives using its own fuel supply from the tank. Mechanically, the vehicle is robust, with the exception of a damaged shift bushing causing intermittent challenges in shifting into reverse and second gear. The rear brakes have been bled, allowing the car to come to a stop with some pedal pumping. While the front brakes didn't bleed successfully on the first attempt, it is assumed that the new owner, conducting a comprehensive mechanical review, will address this. Wipers and driving lights are in good working order. In summary, this car consistently exemplifies itself as an excellent restoration candidate.

**PLEASE BE SURE TO VIEW OUR YouTube VIDEO FOR THE MOST IN DEPTH DETAIL AND DRIVING VIDEO**