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700cc, 30bhp, max 70mph, the BMW
700 wasn't going to set the European roads alight. The diminutive
but noisy twin cylinder motorcycle engine was positioned in the back which
helped to reduce noise intrusion.
The Giovanni Michelotti designed car was availlable
in saloon, coupe or convertible form, you could even specify the high
performance version which gave twin carburettors and a top speed of 80
mph.The sports car versions even acquitted themselves well in saloon car
racing in the 1960s.
During the 1950s BMW had concentrated on motorcycle
and bubblecar production but had seen their financial situation deteriorate.
In 1961 a 1500 cc version was manufactured to compliment the 700 cc and
helped to boost sales and bring BMW away from financial ruin. The BMW
sold 188,000 700s between 1959 and 1965 and helped to put them on the
road to becoming the motoring giant they are today.
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