BMW 2002 Price Guide

The 2002 is one of the most important cars in BMW’s history. The two-door compact that established the marque’s sporting reputation, inspired generations of engineers, and can fairly claim to have invented the concept of the sports saloon as a class. It did not merely define BMW; it made BMW relevant.

The Car

Produced from 1968 to 1976 (the body also used in 1600, 1802, and 2002ti variants), the 2002 used the 2.0-litre overhead-cam four-cylinder in 100bhp carburettor form. The 2002ti twin-carb produced 120bhp; the 2002tii with Kugelfischer injection produced 130bhp; and the extraordinary 2002 Turbo of 1973 (the first turbocharged car produced in Europe for series sale) produced 170bhp.

The 2002 Touring three-door hatchback anticipated the hot hatch concept with Paul Bracq and Wilhelm Hofmeister’s innovative styling.

What Goes Wrong

Rust is endemic; sills, floors, front inner wings, and the boot floor all corrode. Any 2002 with a solid structure is worth more than a mechanically perfect car with a rotted shell. The carburettor engines are simple to maintain while the Kugelfischer injection requires specialist knowledge. The 2002 Turbo’s lag-then-surge power delivery demands respect, particularly on damp surfaces.

Buying

The 2002tii is the driver’s car of the range with its package of mechanical injection, 130bhp, and better breathing throughout the rev range than the carburettor cars. The 2002 Turbo is a museum piece of rapidly ascending value. Standard 2002s offer the essential experience at more accessible prices. The BMW 2002 Cabriolet by Baur is rare and desirable. Join the BMW Car Club before buying anything.