Conceived in 1954 as sportier versions of BMW’s grand “Baroque Angel” postwar models, the 503 Coupe and Cabriolet were inspired by famed US importer Max Hoffman and BMW’s Commercial Director Hanns Grewenig as elite grand touring models for the robust American market of the era. Featuring unforgettable styling by Count Albrecht von Goertz, who also designed the contemporary 507, the BMW 503 sported gorgeous hand-formed aluminum bodywork with limited yet effective use of brightwork.

A glamorous grand tourer in every respect, the 503 debuted at the September 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show. Powered by BMW’s all-new 3.2-liter V-8 engine, the 503 utilized the shorter-wheelbase chassis of the 3200 S with its sophisticated underpinnings. Interestingly, the 503 employed a column-shifted, four-speed manual transmission shared with the contemporary 502, mounted remotely from the engine and connected by a short driveshaft, with a second driveshaft sending power from the gearbox to the rear differential. The luxurious, close coupled 2+2 passenger compartment included top-quality leather upholstery and useful instrumentation akin to the finest jewelry. Production was extremely low with high development costs; ultimately, just 412 were built from May 1956 to March 1959, including 139 cabriolets and 273 sleek coupes.

Sporting two-tone metallic blue paint over red leather upholstery, this charismatic and handsome 1957 BMW 503 Coupe was restored and fastidiously maintained under the enthusiastic, prior long-term owner. The alloy BMW 3.2-liter OHV V-8 engine is paired with a column-shifted, mid-mounted, four-speed manual transmission and braking is via vacuum-assisted, four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes with finned drums in front. Other highlights include driving lamps, hydraulically operated windows, a Becker Mexico radio with retractable antenna, and a hidden modern stereo with trunk-mounted CD changer.

A service performed during September 2023 included an inspection, oil change, and replacement of the spark plugs and battery, plus installation of new Pirelli Cinturato CA67 tires surrounding 16" ventilated steel wheels finished in dark blue metallic paint and crowned by chrome BMW hubcaps. A matching spare tire is stowed beneath the trunk floor. All five wheels bear “598” date stamps. A tool kit is housed inside the engine compartment along the firewall and other desirable accompanying items include a roadside jack and service records.

Styled by one of the finest designers of the era and featuring BMW’s legendary engineering prowess, this exceptionally rare 1957 BMW 503 Coupe provides a compelling, rare, and very capable alternative to many far more numerous collector vehicles from competing postwar European manufacturers.

*Please note that this vehicle is titled 1956 and as 001089, the body number.