In 1954, Borgward presented the Isabella. Initially, the two-door sedan was to be called Hansa 1500 but when the test cars were given the name Isabella, both the employees and also the press were so enthusiastic that the more graceful name was soon chosen, although Hansa 1500 could also be found on the car for the first few years. In 1957, Borgward decided to make a slimmer 2+2 coupé. According to many Borgward enthusiasts, the most beautiful car the brand ever produced.The Borgward is not a cheap car. Considerably pricier than competitors from Ford and Opel but less expensive than a Mercedes-Benz. The self-supporting body is not a given at the time and the press is full of praise for the car. Under the hood is a 1,493 four-cylinder that manages to produce 75 hp.This Isabella was first delivered in June 1957, the first year of production of the Coupé. That makes this early example extra covetable. The car came to the Netherlands in 1961 and was not registered until 1963. The best thing we can report: that owner, the only one in the Netherlands, owned the car until 2023, sixty years long! We can therefore speak of a unique history for an exceptional car. The longtime sole Dutch owner kept everything neatly in his folder with documentation, so there are invoices present with the car dating back to the 1960s. Also from all other periods is more than enough documentation present, so there are photos of the car during the restoration, but also the original booklets, the Borgward register booklet with stickers from the active years (and there are quite a few) and other unique things that you will not usually encounter with such a car.The car was once restored in the past and judging from the photos, the car was completely stripped bare.

After the restoration, the car was used only for pleasure and so we have here an incredibly beautiful car. Since the restoration was not done in the last few years, the car looks more in its original state than in a 'recently over-restored condition'. That is not to say that 'the ravages of time' have done their work: the Borgward looks beautiful.The interior matches the exterior, not only in color but also in condition: without defects or damage but providing the better 'time capsule feeling'. Anyway, an Isabella is a pleasure to sit in with its stylish dashboard with art-deco style influences. The seats, tastefully done up in two-tone upholstery are excellent.Driving the Borgward does a great job. Sitting in the comfortable seat, the gearshift allows smooth operation and shifting through the four gears. The engine feels lively and driving is a very enjoyable experience. Braking and steering is excellent for the Isabella, thanks to the fine braking and well-maintained suspension.You are looking for a special, stylish classic that is completely ready for many enjoyable classic miles? Then this coupé is a very good, not everyday choice.