Description
Borgward Isabella Coupé | 1958
Highlights:
– Rare post-war German classic with elegant coupé styling
– Equipped with 1.5L four-cylinder engine and manual transmission
– Appealing two-door layout with distinctive mid-century lines
– Smooth-running engine, gearbox, and verified working electronics
The seller offers for sale this 1958 Borgward Isabella Coupé, a model renowned for its graceful lines and status as one of the more stylish German vehicles of the 1950s. This version features a 1.5L petrol-powered four-cylinder engine paired with a manual gearbox. The Isabella was known for its advanced engineering and comfort, and this two-door coupé variant was a more luxurious version of the sedan, aimed at a higher-end market.
This car is presented in what the seller describes as a good condition overall. The paintwork is largely clean, though some minor touch-up spots are noted and the left front wing is made of plastic — likely a past repair or replacement. It has a tidy appearance, though close inspection may reveal minor imperfections. The car retains its Dutch registration.
Interior condition is reported to be in good condition, with parts intact and requiring no replacement. The cabin layout of the Isabella Coupé included a well-finished dashboard, slender steering wheel, and large clear dials – all very much part of the car’s charm.
Technically, the car is described as solid and ready for road use. The vehicle has a valid inspection.
The Borgward Isabella Coupé holds an interesting position in European automotive history. Manufactured by Carl F. W. Borgward GmbH, the Isabella was introduced in 1954 and quickly became a success thanks to its forward-looking design and advanced features for the time. The Coupé variant appeared later and solidified Borgward’s reputation as a company that produced aspirational, stylish vehicles for the upper middle class.
Unlike many contemporaries, Borgward offered monocoque construction, independent front suspension, and hydraulic clutch actuation – relatively sophisticated for the era. The Isabella was particularly well received in export markets such as the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United States, where its design stood out among the more utilitarian cars of the period. The car’s elegant styling was often compared to more expensive brands, and its marketing pitched it as a refined but attainable choice.
Despite the model’s popularity, Borgward entered financial difficulties and ultimately ceased operations in 1961. The collapse was controversial, with some claiming it was politically motivated or hastily handled. As a result, surviving Borgward models have developed a niche following among collectors, especially the Coupé versions which are rarer.
This Isabella represents an opportunity to own a piece of 1950s German automotive design with enduring charm. The flowing roofline, chrome accents, and understated proportions continue to appeal to enthusiasts of mid-century motoring.
Condition of the Bodywork and Paint
4. Very Good: Small dents or scratches; may require minimal bodywork or paint correction.
Condition of the Interior
4. Very Good: Clean with minimal wear; may need minor replacements for small missing or broken parts.
Technical Condition
4. Very Good: Mechanically solid, with possible minor maintenance required.
Overall Condition
4. Very Good Condition: Shows only minimal wear and is ready to drive at any time.
This item is sold on an as-is basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and descriptions of the listing are for information purposes only.
We encourage all potential bidders to inspect the vehicle before placing a bid. Please contact us by phone or email to schedule an appointment.
All auction cars offered have a reserve price. You have only won the item if the seller accepts your bid.
Price changes and errors reserved. The 14-day right of withdrawal does not apply to this auction.
This car is currently located in Noord-Brabant, Netherlands.
This car drives, brakes and shifts.
The car has a Dutch registration. The buyer is responsible for registration in his own country and responsible for delivery and collection of any vehicle purchased at the auction.
The description of this car is, to the best of the seller’s knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Route 66 Auctions requests a range of detail about the car from the seller and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. We strongly advise potential buyers to view or arrange inspections as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to bid or buy.
Please note that it is not uncommon for classic or collectible cars to have received cosmetic repairs in the past, to rectify damage or refresh appearance, and this work may be hard to see even upon visual inspection. Unless there is an explicit statement by the seller to the contrary, please assume that any vehicle could have had bodywork or paintwork. Photographs may not reflect the exact true colour or exact full condition of the vehicle. It is a bidder’s responsibility to assure themselves of the colour and condition of a vehicle, including its interior and the existence of any remedial bodywork or paintwork, before committing to bid or buy.
