Borgward Isabella
The Borgward Isabella combines elegant 1950s styling with solid German engineering, offered in sedan, coupe, and cabriolet form. It’s an uncommon European classic with a market that varies widely based on body style and condition.
Find one with Spotter →Typical sold price of a Borgward Isabella ranges from $6,324 to $41,765, based on 27 sales tracked on Hypercars. 4 currently for sale.
The Borgward Isabella was the most successful model from the Bremen-based German automaker, produced from 1954 until the company's collapse in 1961. It was a stylish and well-engineered family car that sold over 200,000 units, offered as a sedan, wagon, coupe, and a very rare cabriolet. The car's handsome styling and slightly upmarket positioning made it a strong competitor to mainstream offerings from Opel and Ford.
Collectors appreciate the Isabella for its attractive design, which stands out from more sober German cars of the period. The TS models, with their 75 hp engine, offer better performance and are more sought-after than the standard 60 hp versions. The elegant coupe and cabriolet are the most valuable variants, prized for their rarity and style. The tragic story of Borgward's controversial bankruptcy adds a unique narrative to ownership.
The market for the Isabella is relatively small, with values heavily dependent on body style and condition. Sedans in driver condition can be found affordably, but perfectly restored coupes and cabriolets sell for significant premiums. With an average sale price around $24,000, it occupies an interesting niche for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive European classic that isn't a Mercedes-Benz or BMW.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest enemy. Thoroughly inspect the sills, floor pans, jacking points, and the areas around the headlights and wheel arches.
- The 1.5L engine is robust, but check for excessive smoke, oil leaks, and any signs of overheating. The swing axle rear suspension should be inspected for worn bushings.
- Parts availability is a major consideration. Ensure all chrome trim, badges, and interior fittings are present and in good shape, as sourcing replacements can be difficult and costly.
- Verify the model. Desirable and valuable TS coupes are sometimes faked from standard sedans, so check chassis numbers and specific TS features like the diamond-shaped grille emblem and dual carburetors.
Recent sales show a wide range, with prices from $3,400 for projects to $38,250 for exceptional examples.
27 Borgward Isabella vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 4 currently live. Sold prices range from $3,400 to $260,289.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Borgward Isabella cost?
Based on 27 sales tracked on Hypercars, Borgward Isabella prices typically range from $6,324 to $41,765. There are 4 currently for sale.
How many Borgward Isabella listings are for sale right now?
There are 4 Borgward Isabella listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.