Growing in popularity, the BMW 507 is a highly sought-after vehicle by car enthusiasts worldwide. Produced only from 1956 to 1959, with a limited production of just 252 units, this rare car has attained iconic status in the industry. Adding to its appeal is the fact that this specific BMW 507 was previously owned by the legendary Elvis Presley, fondly known as “The King” or “The King of Rock & Roll.”
Acquired from a used car dealer back in December 1958, this BMW 507 holds a unique history as it accompanied Elvis Presley during his military service in the US. The vehicle’s chassis number, 70079, was meticulously documented at that time.
Initially, Elvis Presley found the car’s white color to be bothersome. The constant need for cleaning to remove lipstick marks and love messages from his adoring female fans compelled him to have the BMW 507 repainted in red.
Upon completing his military service in March 1960, Elvis Presley sold the BMW 507 to a Chevrolet dealer for a mere $4,500. The car, still retaining its chassis number 70079, was then purchased by Tommy Charles, the owner of a local radio station. Tommy Charles attempted to fit a Chevrolet engine into the BMW 507, leading to modifications to its framework and the replacement of certain interior components such as the gearbox and rear axle. Afterward, the modified BMW 507 raced and won in Daytona Beach before being sold in 1963.
Subsequently, the BMW 507 with chassis number 70079 passed through the hands of two more female owners before being stored in the warehouse of engineer Jack Castor, who was initially unaware of its illustrious past. It wasn’t until around 2011, when Jack Castor read an article in Bimmer magazine, that he discovered his BMW 507’s connection to Elvis Presley. BMW subsequently approached Jack Castor for the car’s repurchase and restoration based on his preferences.
In early 2014, Elvis Presley’s BMW 507 was transported to Germany and showcased in a special exhibition called “Elvis’ BMW 507 – Lost and Found” at the BMW Museum. The car was later taken to the BMW factory for a thorough restoration, including a return to its original white color, interior updates, and the installation of an equivalent original engine.
The restoration process presented a significant challenge for BMW engineers due to the scarcity of original parts. To address this, advanced 3D printing technology was employed to restore or replace various damaged components. The most daunting task, however, was finding a suitable replacement V8 engine with a 3.2-liter capacity, unique to the BMW 507. The limited production of just 252 units and the passage of nearly 60 years made this search particularly difficult. As a result, the BMW engineers had to source and assemble separate engine parts to restore the V8 engine to its original specifications.
The end result was a successful restoration of Elvis Presley’s BMW 507 to its original 1958 appearance. The car’s exterior now showcases a vibrant white paint job, while all damaged elements have been meticulously repaired or replaced, highlighting its luxurious and glamorous features. The interior combines sporty and elegant design elements, with bright white accents complemented by chrome details. The BMW engineers fulfilled Jack Castor’s vision by faithfully recreating the BMW 507’s initial allure. Sadly, Jack Castor passed away in November 2014 and did not witness the remarkable transformation.
Recently, the BMW 507, embodying the legacy of Elvis Presley, was showcased at Pebble Beach on August 18, 2016. This exhibition not only celebrated the brand’s value but also paid homage to the Rock & Roll icon himself, Elvis Presley, while commemorating the priceless heritage of Jack Castor.
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