Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
BMW’s meticulous restoration of Elvis Presley’s BMW 507 Roadster, a classic car steeped in automotive history, captivated enthusiasts nearly a decade ago. The pristine white roadster, once owned by the King of Rock and Roll during his military service in Germany, had become an elusive legend after its disappearance for many years.
The Discovery of a Lost Automotive Icon
Contrary to popular belief, this historically significant German vehicle, now valued at millions, was not entirely lost. It was discovered in a warehouse in Half Moon Bay, south of San Francisco, albeit in a state of considerable disrepair. The mere fact that such a valuable piece of automotive history sat unnoticed for so long is astounding.
From Show Car to Rock and Roll Royalty
Even before it became associated with Elvis Presley, the car itself had achieved a degree of fame. This particular BMW 507 was initially displayed at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in 1957, where it drew considerable attention. Subsequently, renowned race car driver Hans Stuck raced the vehicle and it was utilized for press demonstrations and promotional filming.
Elvis Takes Ownership
In December 1958, a dealership in Frankfurt sold the 507 to Elvis Presley, who famously had it refinished in red. Upon completing his military service, Presley shipped the BMW back to the United States in March 1960.
A Period of Obscurity and Rediscovery
The BMW 507 subsequently changed owners multiple times, gradually fading from public awareness. In 1968, an engineer named Jack Castor acquired the vehicle and stored it away. Castor was aware of the roadster’s racing history with Hans Stuck, but remained unaware of its connection to Elvis Presley.
BMW Group Classic’s Intervention
Once the car’s provenance as an Elvis Presley vehicle was confirmed, BMW Group Classic approached Castor with an offer that proved irresistible. The automaker then commenced an extensive and detailed restoration process to bring the BMW 507 back to its former glory.
Triumphant Unveiling and Automotive Legacy
The fully restored BMW 507 was presented to the public at Monterey Car Week in 2016, showcasing the beautifully revived, celebrity-owned roadster. BMW released documentation of the restoration, and a concise video compilation of this meticulous process is now available, further cementing this vehicle’s place in automotive history.
Images via BMW