1968 BMW 700 LS

KEY FACTS

• A well-presented classic, benefitting from a recent sympathetic restoration and finished in a handsome colour scheme.
• Mounted at the rear is a 697cc flat-twin engine producing 31bhp, which drives the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission.
• The odometer currently indicates 272 km, which is assumed to be the distance covered since the restoration.
• An original left-hand drive example, this 700 LS was first registered in August 1968 overseas, but was acquired by the most recent – UK-based – owner three years ago. It was officially re-registered in the UK in 2018.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• The car is finished in China Blue, while the interior is trimmed in grey vinyl and with patterned cloth centre panels. There is dark grey carpeting and floor mats.
• The two-spoke steering wheel and dashboard fascia appear to be original, and lend the car a classically minimalist ambience. It is undoubtedly a charming place to sit while cruising on the open road.
• Accompanying the vehicle is the original owner’s manual, alongside a large box file containing various diagrams, old title documents and invoices. The vendor notes that all of the spare parts pictured in the image gallery are part of the sale, including the original engine and gearbox casing, so the next owner will likely require a van as additional transport to move all of the items.

CONDITION

• The vendor notes the car was subject to a full repaint in China Blue around five years ago, though while the engine was being restored over the course of 2019, the car was left outside for a period of time which has led to the formation of some cracks in the finish along the front wings and driver’s door.
• The rest of the paintwork presents very well, while the panels appear with flush shut lines and an even appearance.
• The chromed external trim is in great shape, as is all of the badging.
• The interior has been reupholstered in grey vinyl and patterned fabric to a good high standard, while new grey carpets have also been fitted. There are some slight stains on the rear bench, but overall the cabin presents very well.
• There are no known electrical faults.
• This vehicle is exempt from annual MOT testing on the basis of age, but the car is reported to run and drive well.

SERVICE HISTORY

• The vendor notes the car has undergone mechanical refurbishment work since its arrival in the UK at SK Engine Services, a specialist more used to working on Ferrari and Maserati engines. All parts for the work were ordered from a BMW specialist in Germany. The carburettor was cleaned out and the mixture reset, new spark plugs were fitted, and the steering column was realigned.
• New door handles and a bonnet catch were fitted, the wiper motor linkage was reassembled, and the brake master cylinder was replaced. Door aperture seals were supplied and installed, and various bulbs were renewed, with wiring also rerouted or repaired in places.

SUMMARY

This BMW 700 LS is a smart example of the breed, which benefits from recent cosmetic and mechanical refurbishment work. It now presents in good order, and would make a fine classic for gentle touring use, or as an addition to an eclectic BMW collection.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.