BMW - 501 - 1956
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Description from the seller
GENERAL
The BMW 501, famously nicknamed the "Baroque Angel" for its distinctively curved, flowing lines, holds a monumental place in automotive history as the first motor vehicle manufactured and sold by BMW after World War II. Produced in Munich between 1952 and 1958, this luxury saloon re-established BMW as a premier manufacturer of high-end, technically sophisticated automobiles. This specific 1956 BMW 501 A is a rare Finnish-market example, having been sold new in Finland. It underwent a comprehensive, high-standard restoration completed in 2019 and has been driven fewer than 1000 kilometers since, preserving its exceptional condition.
BODYWORK & PAINT
The exterior of this classic saloon is finished in a deep period-correct green, which was fully repainted during the 2019 restoration. The bodywork beautifully showcases the model's signature aerodynamic styling and chrome brightwork. While the car presents in near-immaculate condition, there is a minor, honest scratch on one fender as noted in the documentation. The vehicle sits on color-matched wheels with polished BMW hubcaps and classic whitewall tires, completing its sophisticated 1950s aesthetic.
TECHNICAL
Under the hood, the engine has been fully rebuilt by the renowned specialist Pertti Ojala, ensuring the car performs as reliably as it did when it first left the Munich factory. The mechanical components were a priority during the restoration, and the extremely low mileage of under 1000 kilometers since the rebuild means the drivetrain is essentially in its break-in period. This 501 A model represents the technical peak of BMW’s post-war engineering, offering a smooth and dignified driving experience.
INTERIOR
The cabin is a standout feature of this vehicle, having been fully refurbished to a luxurious standard. The seats were professionally reupholstered as recently as 2025 in a striking cognac leather that provides a warm contrast to the green exterior. The interior also features a beautifully preserved ivory-colored steering wheel and dashboard, period-correct instrumentation, and plush carpeting that reflects the high level of care invested in the 2019 refurbishment.
DOCUMENTS
Prospective owners can take confidence in the extensive verification accompanying this BMW. It has been officially Museum inspected and underwent a rigorous assessment by Classic Data in 2021. The car received a highly respectable grade of "2+", confirming its status as a top-tier collector's piece that remains faithful to its original specifications while benefiting from modern restoration techniques.
COLLECTION
This exceptional piece of German automotive history is currently located in Valkeakoski, Finland. It is available for pickup by the new owner, offering a unique opportunity to acquire a Finnish-delivered "Baroque Angel" with a transparent and local history.
OTHER INFORMATION
Combining a fresh 2025 interior update with a verified mechanical pedigree, this BMW 501 A is ready for the museum floor, high-level concours events, or the private collection of a discerning enthusiast. Its rarity in the Finnish market, combined with the quality of the Ojala engine rebuild, makes it one of the finest surviving examples of the model in Northern Europe."
Seller's Story
Koskin Import is a Finnish company that has been buying and selling Classic & Race vehicles all over the world since 2014.
GENERAL
The BMW 501, famously nicknamed the "Baroque Angel" for its distinctively curved, flowing lines, holds a monumental place in automotive history as the first motor vehicle manufactured and sold by BMW after World War II. Produced in Munich between 1952 and 1958, this luxury saloon re-established BMW as a premier manufacturer of high-end, technically sophisticated automobiles. This specific 1956 BMW 501 A is a rare Finnish-market example, having been sold new in Finland. It underwent a comprehensive, high-standard restoration completed in 2019 and has been driven fewer than 1000 kilometers since, preserving its exceptional condition.
BODYWORK & PAINT
The exterior of this classic saloon is finished in a deep period-correct green, which was fully repainted during the 2019 restoration. The bodywork beautifully showcases the model's signature aerodynamic styling and chrome brightwork. While the car presents in near-immaculate condition, there is a minor, honest scratch on one fender as noted in the documentation. The vehicle sits on color-matched wheels with polished BMW hubcaps and classic whitewall tires, completing its sophisticated 1950s aesthetic.
TECHNICAL
Under the hood, the engine has been fully rebuilt by the renowned specialist Pertti Ojala, ensuring the car performs as reliably as it did when it first left the Munich factory. The mechanical components were a priority during the restoration, and the extremely low mileage of under 1000 kilometers since the rebuild means the drivetrain is essentially in its break-in period. This 501 A model represents the technical peak of BMW’s post-war engineering, offering a smooth and dignified driving experience.
INTERIOR
The cabin is a standout feature of this vehicle, having been fully refurbished to a luxurious standard. The seats were professionally reupholstered as recently as 2025 in a striking cognac leather that provides a warm contrast to the green exterior. The interior also features a beautifully preserved ivory-colored steering wheel and dashboard, period-correct instrumentation, and plush carpeting that reflects the high level of care invested in the 2019 refurbishment.
DOCUMENTS
Prospective owners can take confidence in the extensive verification accompanying this BMW. It has been officially Museum inspected and underwent a rigorous assessment by Classic Data in 2021. The car received a highly respectable grade of "2+", confirming its status as a top-tier collector's piece that remains faithful to its original specifications while benefiting from modern restoration techniques.
COLLECTION
This exceptional piece of German automotive history is currently located in Valkeakoski, Finland. It is available for pickup by the new owner, offering a unique opportunity to acquire a Finnish-delivered "Baroque Angel" with a transparent and local history.
OTHER INFORMATION
Combining a fresh 2025 interior update with a verified mechanical pedigree, this BMW 501 A is ready for the museum floor, high-level concours events, or the private collection of a discerning enthusiast. Its rarity in the Finnish market, combined with the quality of the Ojala engine rebuild, makes it one of the finest surviving examples of the model in Northern Europe."
Seller's Story
Koskin Import is a Finnish company that has been buying and selling Classic & Race vehicles all over the world since 2014.
Details
ブランド
BMW
模型タイプ
501
年
1956
所在地
Finland
走行距離計の値
81000 km
登録書類
with Finnish registration
トランスミッション
Manual
燃料
Petrol
カラー
Green
馬力
71
排気量
2000
マッチングナンバー
Unknown
マッチングカラー
Unknown
整備記録簿
いいえ'
車検有効
いいえ'
CoC (適合証明書) あり
No
鑑定書あり
いいえ'
コンディション (塗装とボディ)
Very Good: minor chips or scratches, minor conventional body and paintwork
コンディション (内装)
Very Good: clean, showing minimal wear. May require replacement of minor missing or broken parts
コンディション (フレームと下回り)
Very Good: frame/structure is in a well preserved condition, minor signs of usage/wear
コンディション (機械部)
Very Good: mechanically sound, may require minor service
コンディション (総合)
Very good condition: minimal signs of wear
Vehicle registration
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Disclaimer
Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every vehicle in line with our submission guidelines and we require our sellers to provide the most accurate description of the vehicle. However, providing a fully detailed analysis of the vehicle is extremely difficult, and close to impossible. To guide you, we ask our sellers to provide information about the vehicle’s condition. Please consider that most vehicles for sale are classic vehicles and they often already have a whole life behind them, meaning that even a condition 1 or 2 vehicle might need maintenance to be ready for the road. It is advised to carefully read our submission guidelines that further describe details about the condition grades and types to manage your expectations. Cars are sold “as is”, meaning as described and in the condition they are in at the time of the sale and without any representation, warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to the condition by Catawiki or by the seller. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from yours, your local garage, or the dealer’s opinion. This does not automatically mean the car does not conform to its description. Before bidding, please check your local legislation regarding vehicle registration. Neither the seller nor Catawiki is responsible for the registration of the vehicle in your country and will not accept a cancellation for your failure to register the vehicle. We also recommend that, if possible, you arrange a viewing with the seller before placing a bid.
Catawiki always aims to offer you the best possible buying experience. Our experts virtually review and select every vehicle in line with our submission guidelines and we require our sellers to provide the most accurate description of the vehicle. However, providing a fully detailed analysis of the vehicle is extremely difficult, and close to impossible. To guide you, we ask our sellers to provide information about the vehicle’s condition. Please consider that most vehicles for sale are classic vehicles and they often already have a whole life behind them, meaning that even a condition 1 or 2 vehicle might need maintenance to be ready for the road. It is advised to carefully read our submission guidelines that further describe details about the condition grades and types to manage your expectations. Cars are sold “as is”, meaning as described and in the condition they are in at the time of the sale and without any representation, warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to the condition by Catawiki or by the seller. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from yours, your local garage, or the dealer’s opinion. This does not automatically mean the car does not conform to its description. Before bidding, please check your local legislation regarding vehicle registration. Neither the seller nor Catawiki is responsible for the registration of the vehicle in your country and will not accept a cancellation for your failure to register the vehicle. We also recommend that, if possible, you arrange a viewing with the seller before placing a bid.
