The 1955 BMW 502 Coupé by Baur stands as a shining example of post-war German engineering and design, blending luxury, power, and exclusivity in one captivating package. Introduced at the 1954 Geneva Motor Show, the 502 was built on the same chassis and body as the BMW 501 but featured significant upgrades, including a more opulent interior and a lightweight aluminum V-8 engine block. While the saloon version was the most widely produced, the limited number of coupé and cabriolet versions crafted by Karosserie Baur elevated the model’s allure.
A Rare Gem in the BMW Lineup
The BMW 502 Coupé offered here is believed to be one of only 29 examples featuring Baur’s elegant coupé body, making it rarer than the 57 cabriolets produced during 1954 and 1955. The sleek, flowing lines of Baur’s design accentuate the car’s classic 1950s styling, making it a true collector’s dream. This particular example is also noted for its fascinating provenance, having been owned by Aleksi Patama, a Finnish racing driver who competed in the Finnish Grand Prix. Patama is said to have regularly driven the car back to Germany for servicing and oversaw its color change to the striking shade of red it sports today.
V-8 Power and Timeless Design
At the heart of the 502 Coupé is its 2.6-liter aluminum V-8 engine, which was a groundbreaking achievement for BMW at the time. This engine offered a level of performance that matched the car’s sophisticated styling, ensuring it was more than just a luxury cruiser. The 502’s combination of powerful V-8 performance and elegant coachwork made it a standout model in the 1950s, admired for both its engineering innovation and aesthetic beauty.
A Cherished History
After changing hands in the 1970s, the 502 Coupé was meticulously maintained by its subsequent owner for two decades before being acquired by The Munich Masterpieces Collection in 1993. The car’s fascinating history, rarity, and immaculate presentation make it a highly sought-after piece of BMW’s automotive heritage.
Offered Without Reserve
With only 29 Baur-styled coupés ever produced, the 1955 BMW 502 Coupé represents the pinnacle of 1950s luxury motoring. This exquisite example is expected to fetch between €130,000 and €180,000, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own one of BMW’s most distinguished post-war models.
For enthusiasts of classic BMWs, this Baur-styled 502 Coupé is an unparalleled blend of rarity, historical significance, and timeless design.
Source: rmsothebys.com
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