This 1960 Borgward Isabella was purchased by the seller from its original lady owner 14 years ago, who in turn is said to have bought it new right off the floor of the Frankfurt Auto Show while stationed in Germany. She nicknamed the coupe Blue Pearl and used it as daily transportation until 1982, after which it was put on jack stands. Recomissioned with new, factory correct paint and a fresh engine, the car was once again used daily from 2003 to 2007 but is now in need of work including repair of a leaky transmission and some pictured rust. Find it here on eBay in Los Angeles, California with reserve not met.

​Overall the car looks nice with complete trim, straight sheet metal and good paint, and though rockers and lower body panels look pretty good some outer floor and frame rail rust is visible in photos. None of it appears terminal, but attention will be required soon in order to avoid worsening. Note the original black California license plates in the trunk, along with which the seller includes several rare spares including a replacement rear window, side glass, bumpers and other miscellaneous body parts and trim pieces.

​Though more readily showing its years than the refreshed exterior, the cabin looks entirely serviceable considering its age and decades of use. A Blaupunkt radio and under-dash VDO tachometer have been added, both period correct and quite rare according to the seller. Seat covers replicate the upholstery’s original colors and pattern, though fit rather loosely and could easily be improved on. Both headliner and door rubbers have seen better days, but the dash looks nice with full factory instrumentation and switchgear.

​The car’s original 1.5L, 75 horse four cylinder was seized when found in 2001, but a correct replacement was sourced shortly after and fitted by a tech recommended to the seller by the American Borgward club. Other work included fixing stuck brakes, and the same mechanic is still used to service the car today. As mentioned above, the 4-speed manual has developed a leaking seal, while rubber front suspension components will also need replacement, though parts for both jobs sound to be included. Other spares include a complete front crossmember and spare, rebuildable engine and transmission.

​A short summary of the seller’s valuation suggests a $19,500 reserve price. Budget for another $5k of work to set it up for another 55 years of preservation, depending on the severity of corrosion. Anyone ready to be the third daily driver?