BMW 2002
The compact sport sedan that convinced America BMW could build a driver's car.
Essentially the 1600 sedan with a 2.0-liter four wedged under the hood, the 2002 arrived almost by accident — a dealer suggestion turned into one of the most important cars in BMW's history. Car and Driver's glowing 1968 review by David E. Davis helped launch BMW as a serious performance brand in the US and created the template for the modern sport sedan.
History
Introduced for 1968, the carbureted 2002 offered a level of steering feel and chassis balance that few affordable sedans of the era could match. It sold well enough in the US to justify BMW's continued investment in the American market at a time when the brand was still a niche import.
The 2002tii arrived for 1972 with Kugelfischer mechanical fuel injection, raising output to around 130 hp and cutting the 0-60 time meaningfully versus the carbureted car. It is the most desirable mainstream 2002 today.
For 1973-74 (Europe only), BMW built the 2002 Turbo — the first turbocharged production car from a German manufacturer. Fewer than 1,700 were built, identifiable by the "2002" script mirrored backward on the front air dam so tailgating drivers would read it correctly in their mirrors.
Notable Versions
2002tii
Kugelfischer mechanical fuel injection, ~130 hp. The best-balanced and most sought-after mainstream 2002.
2002 Turbo
Europe-only, 1973–74. First turbocharged production car from a German maker. Fewer than 1,700 built.
Baur Cabriolet
Targa-style convertible conversion built by Karosserie Baur, sold through BMW dealers.
What to Look for When Buying
Key inspection points from experienced collectors.
Rust is the defining issue
Rear shock towers, floor pans, and rocker panels are common rust locations. A thorough inspection with a magnet and flashlight is essential before buying any 2002.
Verify tii injection components are complete
The Kugelfischer injection pump and related hardware are increasingly hard to source. Missing or disassembled components are expensive to replace.
Turbo authenticity requires real diligence
Given their rarity and value, genuine 2002 Turbos are worth verifying against BMW production records — clones exist.
Check trailing arm bushings and subframe mounts
Worn rear suspension bushings are common on higher-mileage cars and affect the handling the 2002 is known for.
Confirm the data plate matches the claimed spec
Engine swaps and spec changes are common on 2002s after 50+ years — confirm what you're actually buying.
Quick Specs
- Engine options
- 2.0L SOHC I4 (carbureted, tii injected, turbo)
- Horsepower
- 100 hp (base) – 170 hp (Turbo)
- Wheelbase
- 98.4 in
- Weight
- 2,100–2,400 lbs
- Transmission
- 4-speed manual (5-speed on tii)
- 0–60 (tii)
- approx. 9 seconds
Market Price Guide
Approximate USA asking prices
BMW 2002 For Sale
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