Back to Bmw
Official AutoWiki Guide

Bmw Bmw 507

Find Me One
```html

The BMW 507: A Timeless Roadster

The BMW 507 is a legendary roadster produced by BMW from 1956 to 1959. Conceived in the mid-1950s by BMW importer Max Hoffman as a model to fill the gap between the expensive Mercedes-Benz 300SL and the cheaper but less refined British roadsters, the 507 was intended to boost BMW's sales in the crucial American market. While stunningly beautiful and technically advanced for its time, high production costs and a lack of sales success nearly bankrupted BMW. Today, it's one of the most desirable and valuable classic cars in the world, representing a pinnacle of 1950s automotive design.

The 507 occupies a unique class: it's a luxury grand touring roadster, blending performance and elegant style. It offered sporting driving dynamics with comfortable accommodations for two, designed for open-air touring in style.

Generations

While there weren't distinct "generations" in the modern sense of yearly model changes, there were two main series with notable updates:

  • Series I (1956-1957): The initial production run. Early Series I cars are identifiable by having the fuel tank located behind the seats, requiring a smaller trunk space. They also often featured minor trim differences. These are considered the purest and most desirable examples by many collectors.
  • Series II (1957-1959): The fuel tank was relocated under the trunk floor, significantly increasing luggage capacity. This change addressed a major complaint from early owners. Minor mechanical refinements were also implemented throughout the production run.

Reliability & Common Issues

Owning a BMW 507 requires a deep understanding of vintage car mechanics. While beautifully engineered, these cars are now over 60 years old, and their longevity depends heavily on proper maintenance and restoration. Here's a breakdown of potential problem areas:

Engine (BMW M507/1 3.2L V8)

  • Oil Leaks: Common in older engines. Check around valve covers, oil pan gasket, and front and rear crankshaft seals. Correcting these requires careful attention to detail and proper gasket installation.
  • Overheating: The original cooling system can struggle in modern traffic. Consider upgrading to a more efficient radiator and potentially adding an electric fan.
  • Carburetion: The dual Zenith 36 NDIX carburetors can be finicky and require regular tuning. Finding a specialist familiar with these carburetors is essential.
  • Wear and Tear: Valve guide wear, piston ring wear, and bearing issues are possible due to age and use. A complete engine rebuild may be necessary if compression is low or if there is excessive oil consumption.

Transmission (ZF 4-Speed Manual)

  • Synchro Wear: Grinding gears, especially when shifting into second, indicates worn synchros. This requires a transmission rebuild.
  • Oil Leaks: As with the engine, seals can dry out and leak. Regular maintenance and fluid checks are critical.

Suspension & Brakes

  • Worn Bushings: Rubber bushings in the suspension system deteriorate over time, leading to sloppy handling. Replacing these bushings with new, high-quality replacements is essential for maintaining proper handling.
  • Brake Fade: The drum brakes, while adequate for their time, can suffer from brake fade under heavy use. Consider upgrading to disc brakes (although this departs from originality) for improved stopping power.
  • Leaky Wheel Cylinders: Check for leaks around the wheel cylinders. Rebuilding or replacing these is necessary to ensure proper brake function.

Body & Chassis

  • Rust: While the 507 features an aluminum body, the underlying chassis is prone to rust. Carefully inspect the frame, especially around the suspension mounting points and floor pans. Repairing rust can be costly.
  • Aluminum Corrosion: Galvanic corrosion can occur where the aluminum body panels meet the steel frame. Look for bubbling or pitting in the paint.
  • Panel Fitment: Original panel fitment was not always perfect. Expect some inconsistencies. Poor panel fitment could indicate previous accident damage or a poorly executed restoration.

Electrical System

  • Wiring Harness Deterioration: The original wiring harness is prone to cracking and fraying. A complete rewire is often recommended to ensure reliability.
  • Generator/Voltage Regulator Issues: The original generator and voltage regulator can be unreliable. Upgrading to an alternator is a common modification.

Driving Experience

The BMW 507 offers a unique and engaging driving experience that's less about outright speed and more about the joy of open-air motoring and the connection to the car. It is far from a modern sports car in driving feel.

Pros:

  • Iconic Styling: The 507 is undeniably beautiful and turns heads wherever it goes.
  • Smooth V8 Power: The 3.2-liter V8 provides ample torque and a distinctive exhaust note.
  • Open-Air Driving: The roadster configuration provides an unmatched sense of freedom.
  • Rarity and Exclusivity: Owning a 507 places you in a very select group of enthusiasts.

Cons:

  • Performance Compared to Modern Cars: While adequate for its time, the 507's performance is far behind modern sports cars.
  • Challenging to Drive: The manual steering, drum brakes, and vintage suspension require skillful driving and anticipation.
  • Maintenance Demands: These cars require constant attention and specialized knowledge.
  • Extremely High Cost: The 507 is one of the most expensive classic cars on the market.

Buying Advice

Buying a BMW 507 is a serious undertaking due to the car's rarity, value, and complexity. Here's what to consider:

Years to Look For/Avoid:

There isn't a specific year to avoid, but early Series I cars with the smaller trunk can be slightly less practical. However, some collectors prefer the purity of the early design. Generally, the best advice is to prioritize condition and provenance over specific year or series.

Key Considerations:

  • Provenance: A well-documented history is crucial. Look for cars with known ownership history, original documentation, and service records.
  • Condition: Prioritize a car that has been well-maintained and properly restored. A complete, original car is highly desirable.
  • Originality vs. Modifications: Original cars command a premium. However, some modifications, such as upgraded brakes or cooling systems, can improve drivability without significantly detracting from value.
  • Rust Inspection: A thorough inspection for rust is essential. Pay close attention to the frame, floor pans, and suspension mounting points.
  • Expert Inspection: Before purchasing any 507, have it inspected by a qualified BMW classic car specialist. They can identify potential problems that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
  • Budget: Be prepared for a significant investment. The purchase price is just the beginning. Ongoing maintenance, repairs, and potential restoration costs can be substantial. Budget for both purchase and upkeep.
  • Authentication: Given the car's value, authentication is key. Verify the chassis and engine numbers with BMW Mobile Tradition (BMW Group Archive) to confirm the car's originality and history.

The BMW 507 is more than just a car; it's a piece of automotive history and a symbol of timeless design. Owning one is a privilege, but it's one that requires deep pockets, patience, and a genuine passion for vintage automobiles.

```