The history

The V8 BMW Type 502 was called the king of the highway in the 1950s. With this car, BMW built a V8 engine for the first time, which was one of the world's first large series aluminum engines.   

After overcoming the financial difficulties, the new BMW model was presented to the public for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1954: The BMW 502. It was the first German eight-cylinder car after the war, with the engine itself being the world's first mass-produced eight-cylinder unit made of cast aluminum. The body, frame and transmission were adopted from the six-cylinder 501 model without any changes. This meant that the 502 also had a gearbox separate from the engine block, which further improved the smooth running of the silky-smooth V8 engine, which was on a par with that of American eight-cylinder engines.

This “Baroque Angel” is one of the few vehicles delivered in Switzerland that was first put on the road in 1957. And it is the only example known to us with the large factory folding roof. In 1994, the proud saloon was taken over by its current owner and extensively restored in several stages to its current condition, with the entire mechanical system being continuously overhauled. A major inspection was carried out for the last MFK veteran's inspection and it has been driven 300 km since then.

Bodywork and paintwork

Even after many years since the restoration, the original paint is still in excellent condition and requires neither repairs nor touch-ups. The accident-free vehicle is undamaged, the bodywork, gaps and fittings are flawless.

Interior

The fine fabric interior is as good as new. Only the foam underlays are a little more flexible and show their age. The wood of the dashboard and panels is still in excellent restoration condition. The headliner with the coveted folding roof, which was replaced at the time, is as good as new and in perfect working order.

Engine and mechanics

The entire mechanical system is in very good condition, freshly overhauled (CHF 4,000 for the last MFK) and only requires a fresh inspection, which will be carried out when the vehicle is purchased.

Chassis

Chassis, suspension and brakes have been refurbished for the MFK and have passed the test bench test. The underbody is in very good condition and has only 2 older and professionally carried out welding repairs.

Driving experience

The king of the highway rightly bears this title. The 502 is silky smooth and loves fast roads just as much as the highway. With the permitted 6 passengers, it will certainly have to work harder with its slightly more than 100 hp than a current V8, but it will take the driver and passengers to their destination in a relaxed manner.