To Be OFFERED AT AUCTION WITHOUT RESERVE at RM Sothebys' Munich event, 23 November 2024.

• Among the first BMW 501s made, bearing the chassis number “40047”
• One of only 2,125 examples made between 1952 and 1954
• Powered by its matching-numbers 1,971-cc inline-six engine
• Presented in black over a cloth interior complemented by a blue dashboard and ivory steering wheel

BMW introduced the 501 on an all-new platform, which was built around a perimeter frame chassis. The model featured double-wishbone front suspension with torsion bar springs complemented by a live axle with torsion bar springs at the rear, combining to enhance the 501’s ride quality and underpin its standing as a luxurious cruiser. Production began in October 1952 and lasted just short of 10 years, with almost 15,000 cars built across several updates and derivatives.

The example offered here, chassis 40047, was completed by the factory in November 1952 as one of the first cars made from the 501’s production run. The car was sold via Arne Rindar Aktiebolag of Stockholm, and it is believed to have stayed in Sweden until 2016. The 501-6 was then taken to Finland when it was acquired by The Munich Masterpieces Collection in 2018.

Beset by period features including a half-moon-shaped speedometer, round clock mounted above the rear-view mirror, and imitation bone trim, this early production “Baroque Angel” retains its matching-numbers engine and is offered with a Birth Certificate by BMW Classic. It would be an ideal contender for relaxed weekend cruising.
To view this car and others currently consigned to this auction, please visit the RM website at rmsothebys.com/auctions/mu24/.