Manufacturer catalogue image - please note that pre-release images may be CAD renders or CGI images rather than photographs
Prototype Eras
Era 4 (1948 to 1956) British Railways Early Crest
Era 5 (1956 to 1966) British Railways Late Crest
Era 6 (1967 to 1972) British Rail Blue (Pre-TOPS)
Era 7 (1972 to 1982) British Rail Blue (TOPS)
Arguably the first micro-car to earn the Bubble Car nickname due its shape and bubble type windows, the German manufacturer BMW produced the Isetta under licence, as did several other countries. You will notice the BMW logo printed on the front centre opening door. The Isetta was first introduced in the 1950s and incredibly was the first vehicle to achieve 94 mph which in retrospect must have been a terrifying experience for anyone in it, although unlike other bubble cars, it had four wheels! It was also the world's top selling single cylinder car at the time and when production ended in 1962 over 161,000 had been produced.
The Isetta makes its latest Oxford appearance decorated in bright yellow registered 552 VPC. It features a black sunroof and external trim is finished in silver. The interior and steering wheel are moulded in mid blue and the seating is a rich blue which makes an attractive contrast to the sunshine yellow exterior paintwork.
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Oxford Diecast Yellow BMW Isetta – Model 76IS004
This die‑cast replica represents a BMW Isetta from the period identified as British Railways Late Crest. The original vehicle was introduced in the 1950s and was among the first micro‑cars to be described as a “bubble car” because of its rounded shape and bubble‑type windows. Production of the real Isetta ceased in 1962 after more than 161 000 units had been built. It was notable for having four wheels, achieving a top speed of 94 mph, and being the world’s best‑selling single‑cylinder car at the time.
The Oxford version is painted bright yellow and bears the registration “552 VPC”. External trim is finished in silver and a black sunroof is fitted. The interior features a mid‑blue moulded steering wheel and rich blue seating, providing a contrast to the yellow bodywork.
The model is supplied with the manufacturer part number 76IS004 and is intended for collectors interested in British railway era die‑cast models.