1973 BMW 2002 Turbo
Spark - S2815 (resin)
Published 09/27/23
BMW released the first car of the 02 Series in 1966. The first model was the 1600-2, a two-door entry-level sedan with a 1.6 engine. It housed a 1573 cm³ inline-4 engine that only produced 62 kW (84 hp). Nonetheless, the car sold well. Due to the good sales, in September of 1967, BMW released the 1600 TI, the high performance version of the 1600. The TI used the same engine, however with a higher compression ratio and dual Solex carburetors it delivered 76 kW (104 hp). Yet, the 1.6 engine was at its limit. So in 1971 BMW released the 2002, now with a 1990 cm³ engine and delivering 99 hp. Some time later came the 2002 ti (87 kW/118 hp), 2002 tii (94 kW/128 hp) and finally, in 1973, the 2002 Turbo.
The big deal about the 2002 was that it was turbocharged – BMW’s first turbo model. The engine was a technically simple 1990 cm³ inline-4 with SOHC, with a larger radiator and an oil cooler. However, it also had mechanical fuel injection with integrated boost enrichment feature and altitude compensation. Moreover, with the KKK BLD turbo the engine delivered 124 kW (168 hp) and 240 Nm of torque. Power went to the rear wheels through a Getrag 232 4-speed manual transmission. Stopping power came from ventilated disk brakes up front and solid disks on the rear. With all that, the 2002 could reach 209 km/h and 0 to 100 km/h in (very) respectable 7.5 seconds.
BMW only offered the 2002 in “Chamonix white” or “Polaris silver”. The body was steel, and the front fender had a characteristic air-intake on the right. Moreover, there was a rubber rear spoiler on the trunk lid and “screwed-on” fiberglass wheel arch extensions. The interior was also special, with a red instrument panel and sports seats and steering wheel. All that translated to a distinctive look, giving the 2002 a very “racy” appearance. And it didn’t only have looks, the car truly delivered. At the time, only Porsche’s 155 kW (210 hp) 911 Carrera was faster.
The 2002 Turbo is nowadays an icon, and many consider it as the precursor to BMW’s M cars. True or not, the fact is that the 2002 is unanimously idolized by any gearhead. Myself included 😉. Therefore, I was anxious to get one. Consequently, when Spark announced it in 2022, I immediately pre-ordered one. It was one of those models (like the Lancia Delta Integrale), that I had to have in the W-143 Garage. It took a while to come out yet it was worth the wait. In scale, as it’s the norm, Spark did a fantastic job. The model looks absolutely stunning, and will excite any bimmer fan 🏆.