From the Forgotten Luxury Sibling to the Timeless BMW 507

The BMW 507 and 503: A Tale of Luxury and Commercial Misfortune

The BMW 507 stands out as one of the most iconic and influential models in the brand’s history. Its lightweight V8 engine was a significant technical achievement at the time of its release. The elegant design of the 507 served as the inspiration for the equally legendary BMW Z8, showcasing its timeless appeal. Despite its groundbreaking features, the 507 failed to make a mark commercially, with only 251 units produced before production ceased. Alongside the 507, BMW introduced the BMW 503, a more luxurious and expensive version of the iconic model.

The BMW 503: A Luxury Statement

Debuting alongside the 507 at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 1955, the BMW 503 shared many similarities with its counterpart. Both models were considered expensive for their time, with the 503 commanding a higher price tag compared to the 507. Designed by Albrecht von Goertz, the mastermind behind other legendary cars like the Toyota 2000GT and Nissan Silvia, both the 503 and 507 featured a 3.2-liter V8 engine. While the 507 focused on performance with 150 horsepower, the 503 prioritized luxury and refinement with 140 horsepower. Despite their shared attributes, both models faced commercial challenges, with BMW selling only a limited number of units of each.

Visually and functionally, the BMW 507 and 503 catered to different needs. The 507 offered seating for two, while the 503 featured a 2+2 configuration. The convertible version of the 503 showcased its practicality with rear seats that were more functional in open-top form. The 503 was available in coupe form, a variation that was absent in the 507. Built on a slightly modified 502 sedan chassis, the 503 differed significantly from the 507 in terms of construction, featuring a shorter wheelbase and sturdier materials to minimize chassis flex.

Comparing Success and Failure

Interestingly, the BMW 503 outsold the 507 despite its higher price point. However, neither model achieved profitability due to various market challenges. The 507 struggled to meet expectations in the U.S. market, where V8 power was already prevalent, while the 503’s luxury positioning made it unattainable for mainstream buyers. The absence of a strong BMW presence in the United States further hindered the 503’s sales success. Even with its superior features, the 503 faced difficulties in competing with established luxury brands that offered better dealership and service support.

Although the BMW 503 surpassed the 507 in sales, it remains overshadowed by its more famous counterpart. Today, the 503 is considered one of the rarest BMW models, with auction prices reflecting its exclusivity. While top-tier 503 models may fetch around half a million dollars, the 507 commands prices well beyond the million-dollar mark. Both models have transitioned from commercial disappointments to auction sensations, a common trend in the automotive industry. The enduring legacy of the 507 and 503 raises questions about the future value of modern-day vehicles in the collector’s market.