1974 | BMW 2002 tii

After the war, when BMW was bombed to pieces, the company had a big challenge in starting up a civilian production. Before the war, BMW had become known for making sporty and exclusive cars, and they wanted to position themselves there again. They had some success making microcars like the Isetta and the 600/700 models, but with the expensive 500 models, production figures was not too high. The solution for BMW was the so-called “Neue Klasse”, a completely new design arriving in 1962 with a modern 4-door saloon. It was an instant success and also came as a coupe. But BMW still wanted to offer a slightly smaller model that was both sportier and more economically manageable. So, based on a shortened version of the 1500/2000, the new darling was presented in 1965 simply named the 1600-2. BMW had asked for design help from Giovanni Michelotti – of course! The result was a 2-door sedan with a sporty coupe-like design, still with reasonable room for 4 persons. And with many technical delights as standard, such as independent rear suspension, rack and pinion steering and disc brakes. Over time, the model changed name from 1600-2 to the more straightforward 1602, and thus the 02 series was established.

The model was to compete with similar models from Alfa Romeo, Triumph, Fiat, Opel and Ford and was still a bit too expensive and a bit too weak in in power in that context. The famous US importer Max Hoffman suggested to make a model with the powerful 2-liter version of the M10 engine, and thus the 2002 arrived. The first version only with a single carburetor, later with two double Solex in the 2002ti, and finally in the top model 2002tii to get mechanical injection and a full 130hp. Aside from the exotic 2002 Turbo, this was one of the fastest mid-range cars of the time with a top speed of 185 km/h. Add to that the sporty handling and relatively low weight, and you realize why the model became popular in motorsport.

Although BMW may have a reputation today for being a quality car, not many of the older models have survived the challenge of time well, they rusted like hell. And over the years it was (obviously) not a model that was expensive or interesting enough to preserve or restore, so finding a good example today is not quite so easy.

Fortunately this is exactly what we can present here – a 1974 2002 tii in absolutely top condition throughout. The car has been thoroughly restored by a passionate enthusiast over a period of 5 years. This is a true “Nut & Bolt” restoration, there is not a part or the smallest thing that has not been touched upon. The engine and gearbox have been restored by specialist company, and even the interior has been tailor-made by upholstery workshop. All of this is supported by a large binder full of bills and descriptions. And make no mistake – it has been an expensive exercise, with invoices alone exceeding 40.000€. Add to those countless unpaid working hours. A prime example of how it just doesn’t pay off to restore a car yourself – at least not when it is done as uncompromisingly as here. Next owner will benefit from this, effectively getting a new car here – the pictures speak for themselves.

The car drives beautifully, with sharp steering and crisp throttle response – even though it has not yet driven 1000 kilometers after the restoration. This is truly a rare offer, getting such a nice and beautiful sports sedan is not an opportunity that comes up every day.