1974 BMW 2002 TURBO                                      Re...

Estimate

£75,000 - £85,000

1974 BMW 2002 TURBO                                     

Registration Number: BBK 939M    
Chassis Number: 4290856
Recorded Mileage: 65,000 kilometres / 41,000 miles

Produced for the 1973/74 season only, the legendary BMW 2002 Turbo was Europe’s first turbocharged production car. Demands for increased power for its medium-sized saloon had prompted BMW to introduce the original 2002 in 1968, and it was the fuel-injected 2002tii that provided the basis for the model’s ultimate expression – the Turbo – which was readily distinguishable by its deep front air dam, wheelarch extensions and boot-mounted spoiler. This top-of-the-range model had been introduced following a successful racing programme that saw a works entered, turbocharger equipped 2002 win the 1969 European Touring Car Championship in the hands of Dieter Quester. Faced with having to compete against the Porsche 911 (subsequently banned from touring car racing) BMW opted for ‘bolt on’ horsepower courtesy of a turbocharger, the result being a hike from 210 to around 270bhp in race trim. The road version made do with ‘only’ 170bhp, which in a compact package resulted in outstanding performance; the Turbo’s top speed was 130mph, making it the fastest and most exciting medium-sized sports saloon of its day. Today this rare model (only 1,672 were made) is rightly regarded as a modern classic and much sought after.

This lovely 2002 Turbo was registered to its first Italian owner in July 1974, finished in rare and desirable optional Polaris Silver. The BMW later found its way to the Netherlands, where the engine was comprehensively rebuilt before changing hands in 2013. Now part of a prestigious UK-based collection, the 2002 has enjoyed much further restoration work in recent years.

The bodywork, engine bay and luggage space were stripped and refinished in silver with the correct BMW Motorsport livery and iconic reversible Turbo lettering. After painting, the body was fitted up with new rubbers, seals and mouldings, and other minor items were purchased as required. The seats were retrimmed but with the exception of new overmats, the interior is original. A set of wider 6” Campagnolo wheels are fitted to the car, a desirable upgrade which add to the overall look and feel of the car.

The five-speed dogleg gearbox has been rebuilt with a new clutch, the original KKK turbocharger remains in the car, whilst the mechanical fuel injection system has been set up correctly by specialist Lucas Development of Norwich. The cooling system was improved with a new radiator, and a full new exhaust system has been fitted. 

The BMW is complete with current UK V5C and older Dutch registration documents, also various invoices for parts and service work. Now showing a mere 65,000kms/41,000 miles, this is a very nice example of a super rare and highly-prized model amongst BMW enthusiasts.