In BMW circles, the 2002 Turbo is known as “the Holy Grail.” A powerful and visually arresting automobile, it was akin to a holiday firework that burst upon the automotive world and then vanished, a victim of the 1974 fuel crisis that all but killed demand for performance cars.
The 2002 itself, on which the Turbo was based, is widely regarded as the first true sports sedan; a light and modern two-door with seating for four. It was well-built, comfortable, and combined more-than-adequate power and with fully independent suspension and front disc brakes, giving excellent road manners. The early single-carb “Zero-two” of 1968 was succeeded by the twin-carbureted 2002 TI and then the even stronger fuel-injected TII. The new Turbo was unveiled at the 1973 Frankfurt Auto Show and hit rest-of-world markets in 1974. It was not offered in the US.
The Turbo boasted a 1,998-cubic-centimeter SOHC inline-four-cylinder engine with a single KKK turbocharger and Kugelfischer fuel injection. This engine produced 170 brake horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, enough to deliver 60 mph in under seven seconds, with a maximum of 130 mph. The Turbo stood out with a set of fender extensions, a large front air dam (there was no front bumper) and a rear deck spoiler, plus a dazzling graphics package that adorned the front spoiler and both flanks of the body. The “2002 Turbo” lettering on the air dam was applied in reverse, making it easier for drivers who glanced in their rear-view mirrors to identify what was closing in on them.
This Motorcar
The 2002 BMW we are offering here for sale is chassis 4291297. This is one of only 1,672 examples produced by the factory. As indicated on its BMW Classic certificate, this example left the factory on 27 September 1974 to be destined to the French market. It was through the dealer BMW Import AG. Bagneux that the car was delivered to its first owner, Maxime Gruciant, at the end of the same year. The first registration (2683 MX 93) was done on 8 January 1975. Fifteen years later, its first owner sold it to François Jeanson, owner of an eponymous automobile museum, who used it little but regularly. In 2004 it was acquired by its current owner, who has owned it for almost 20 years.
This 2002 Turbo has never been restored and is presented in strictly original condition and in good working order. It has participated in several historical rallies (regularity) over the last ten years, and with success.
One of the last 2002 Turbos still strictly authentic.
European registered. Available immediately.
