The 1963 BMW 1500 was a mid-size or compact executive car produced by BMW from 1961 to 1964. It was the first of the “New Class” BMWs and set the stage for the company’s future success in the 1960s and beyond.
The 1500 was powered by a 1.5-liter SOHC four-cylinder engine that produced 80 horsepower. It was paired with a four-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic. The car had a top speed of 93 mph and could go from 0 to 60 mph in 15 seconds.
The 1500 featured a modern, boxy design with a spacious and comfortable interior. It had a unibody structure and independent suspension, which improved handling and ride quality. The 1500 was offered in two variants: the standard 1500 and the slightly more powerful 1500 TI (Turismo Internazionale).
The 1500 was well-received by the public and the motoring press. It was praised for its performance, handling, and versatility. It was also regarded as a good value for money, as it offered many features and capabilities that were typically found in more expensive cars.
Overall, the 1963 BMW 1500 was an important car for BMW and helped establish the company as a serious player in the mid-size market. Its success paved the way for future “New Class” BMWs, which would go on to become some of the most iconic and beloved cars in the brand’s history.
