The Isetta was initially an Italian-designed microcar, but it went on to be built under license in a number of different countries: including Spain, Belgium, France, Brazil, Germany and here in the UK.

However, most agree that it was the German manufacturer, BMW, who made the Isetta its own.

They redesigned the powerplant around a BMW motorcycle engine and also re-engineered much of the car, so much so that none of the parts between a BMW Isetta Moto Coupe and an Iso Isetta are interchangeable. The first BMW Isetta appeared in April 1955.

Because of its egg shape and bubble-like windows, the Isetta became affectionately known as a bubble car, a name later given to other similar vehicles.