Longitudinal trailing links, pushed, coil springs, tubular dampers
Suspension (rear)
Longitudinal trailing link, pulled, coil springs, tubular dampers
Steering
Gear rack
Brakes
Drums, hydraulic
Wheelbase
2280 mm
Length
3860 mm
Width
1480 mm
Height
1360 mm
Weight
640/550 kg + driver
Tyres
5.50 - 12
Maximum speed
Approx. 120/170 km/h
Modells
Coupe, convertible
Servicing
All 6000 km
Construction period
1959 - 1965/1960
Battery
12 V 24 W
As successor of the BMW 600 arise one for the time something unusual two-doors with engine-, passenger- and luggage compartment,
this certainly not in the rear, but in front
because of the rear engine. It appears in 1959 with the end of the BMW 600 and its production until 1965 overlaps that of the BMW 1500,
which is at least settled one class higher.
The BMW 700 still bases on the two-wheeler technology, how one can recognize particularly well at the air-cooled opposed two-cylinder engine and the compact drive unit. The BMW 1500 will take over from it not only
the design, but also the principle of the trailing arm rear axle forthe drive shafts at the 700 still dry joints will be
enough. This BMW sets standards over its predecessors by a self-supporting body and the steering rack.
The external shape indicates already at this time on all the virtues, also characterized the later BMW's. It is by the plant known as 'timeless' and 'elegant'. One points particularly to the bright interior with plenty of review
of the traffic. On the front is already indicated the at BMW long emphasized bevel down towards the rear (trapezoid line). Obviously it is created for the BMW 700 to store the spare wheel space-saving and easy to reach
in the event of a breakdown. Therefore the small cavity is needed in the center under the front end. In addition to the spare wheel will be find under the front hood the tank filler neck, with the racing version in figure 4 of
a additional cover for faster refueling. It remains some room for luggage in front, one of the few drawbacks of the concept of the BMW 700.
If BMW indicating the handling of this car, so does that compare with today's cars particularly. Additional 'marker edge' allows precise maneuvering. Of course, can also the steering work smoothly with this power
train. The interior is equipped frugal with rubber mats, mini speedo with equal clock, a 'non-reflecting' steering wheel, with safety recessed hub. Despite all modesty the LS features have a fuel gauge, rear lights, a
windscreen washer system and all versions connections for safety belts.
It is interesting to read in the former prospectus today, how BMW vaunts the excellence of the rear engine. There is talk of very little fuel consumption, which is justified by the 'rear drive assembly', because it have an
'ideal grip' and 'excellent traction'. The weight was shifting constantly as it requires 'the driving situation'.
BMW finally is bringing out a vehicle, that reasonably meets the standard of sportsmanship. And this despite a noticeably softer suspension. There is also a step away from the strange door designs of the Isetta and especially the 600. The surprise, the coupe comes first. After all, the mileages are by the bore- and
stroke increasing grown to 700 cm³ and for a
engine at this time quite well.
The fan-cooled motorcycle engine is now regulated by a thermostat. The noise levels are said to be significantly better been damped in the interior than outward. Within the development of BMW, the BMW 700 has
played an important role. Only when you give it credit for the success that could not bring the 600, the development of a 'middle car' is initiated and carried out under some troubles. This is the saving for the company
after 1959. 06/16