1973 BMW 2002 Turbo - E20

ECC-163

Low 61K Miles (98,729 km) / Very Clean

Price On Request

VIN : 4291047

One of the legendary first generation Turbo “Bad Boys”, BMW’s 2002 Turbo was the marque’s first turbocharged model. Like many early turbo installations the power characteristics included a fair amount of lag followed by a sensational kick when the boost came on. It is a thrilling car to drive and makes the most of the essential rightness of the 2002 chassis.

We discovered this very clean, original 2002 Turbo example in Japan. On arrival here we had a full inspection completed by a local BMW specialist. Showing only 98,729 km (61,347 miles) on the odometer, overall condition is very good, both inside and out. The inspection did reveal that the engine, while sound and correct, was ready for a rebuild.

We proceeded with a complete, professionally done engine out rebuild by the BMW experts. All wear items replaced, all systems set right. Rebuild was done with the flat top version of BMW OEM pistons, which results in somewhat lower compression than the standard 2002 Turbo domed pistons. Engine is happier on modern gas and runs very powerfully as rebuilt, but does provide slightly lower HP and is less peaky.

The car also underwent a full review from a BMW specialist following the engine rebuild :

New air filter, transmission oil and differential oil 

Replace drive belts

Replace tie rods and center link

Replace battery 

Alignment 

Replace engine and transmission mounts

Flush out coolant

Flush out brake fluid 

Mechanically now A1 in all regards and ready to enjoy.

Largely original and correct, the body is straight and solid with no significant rust or evidence if prior rust repairs. Paintwork is originalThe car has been repainted and shows the good luster typical of the best period enamels. Overall the exterior is in very good condition with correct side and front stripes. The factory riveted on wheel flares are in excellent condition all around. Near new tires are mounted on rare Mahle alloy rims and a full size spare on a matching wheel is in the boot. A discreet spoiler tops the clamshell trunk lid.

Remarkably complete with regard to the hard to find components like Rentrop seats, über cool Mahle rims, super rare dog leg 5-speed trans.

Engine compartment is very stock, neat and tidy. The punchy turbo four is mated to a crisp shifting 5-speed dog-leg manual transmission. The exhaust system is new.

Interior shows well and offers the remarkable visibility and practicality of the 2002 body style. BMW sport seats offer excellent support and present well in the original black vinyl upholstery. Instrumentation includes a turbo boost gauge and analog clock in the special binnacle unique to the 2002 Turbo. Audio system includes an aftermarket Kenwood head unit with integrated CD player. Rear seat offers two comfortable seating positions and is in good condition. The spacious trunk compartment is in great shape fitted with the original carpeted matting.

This car is believed to be a German market car that was exported to Japan in 1977. We purchased it there and brought it to the US.

Overall utility of the design is outstanding and another reason for the general appeal of the 2002 model.

One of only 1,672 made in the short production run, this unit offers the advantages of low miles and very nice, very original condition. A very desirable model which has shown excellent investment value in recent years

Price On Request

Serious inquiries only please.

Price plus tax and DMV fees.

>>>>>

MODEL HISTORY BMW 2002 Turbo

The original BMW 2002 is largely credited with creating the successful sport sedan image of the brand when introduced in 1968. The ultimate 2002 is generally regarded as the Turbo model introduced in 1974 and never sold in the US. One of the earliest turbo charged cars to be marketed, performance was outstanding for the period. BMW’s 1998 cc OHC four cylinder offered 113 hp in standard 2002s, the Turbo pushed output to 170 hp. This boost dropped the 0-60 sprint to under 7 seconds and pulled a top speed of 130 mph, both benchmark numbers for the day.

This exemplary performance was broadcast via wide wheel flares, front and rear spoilers and a unique stripe treatment. In a clever touch, the 2002 Turbo lettering on the front spoiler was rendered in reverse, so it might be read in the rearview mirror of any lingering left lane conquests.

The interior offered unique bucket seats in luxe black vinyl, additional instruments and a sunroof. The very functional design is widely appreciated as a true 4 passenger compact with a very useful trunk. This practical character mated to the thrilling performance makes the 2002 Turbo a truly desirable motorcar.

Timing of the introduction became problematic when the global oil crisis of 1973-74 made performance cars persona non-grata with the backlash of environmentalists. The 2002 Turbo had a very limited production run of only 1,672 units. This scarcity, coupled with the exciting looks and solid performance have combined to make the 2002 Turbo a very special car and a sought after collectable within the BMW classic community.