1972 BMW 2002

Description

Is the BMW 2002 the most perfect sports sedan ever created? It certainly does a lot of things right and wraps it in a stylish, if somewhat boxy, shape that's endearing and timeless. This two-owner 1972 2002 hits all the right notes, from its super-straight body to the small, round taillights that are popular with its fans to the 5-speed gearbox upgrade.

The beauty of the 2002 is that it has everything you need to have fun in a car and nothing you don't. The shape is purely a result of needing room for four people and their baggage, but keeping curb weight and the footprint to a minimum. Malaga Maroon is a good choice if you want to keep a low profile and helps reinforce the BMW's upscale image, because this was certainly not a cheap car when it was new. And with 40 years of hindsight, we know that these cars also rust in the most demonic ways possible, so finding a clean one like this that has always been sheltered is especially critical. The paint has a nice shine, the chrome looks right, and as a '72 model, it has the early-style bumper and taillights that preserve the essence of the design without the meddlesome Feds screwing it up. It's also pre-emissions, but we'll get to that in a moment. The fact is, this little sedan looks and acts like it should cost a lot more than it does.

The tan bucket seat interior is surprisingly spacious and thanks to the low cowl and upright greenhouse, it's bright and airy with unparalleled sight lines. Want to plant the right front tire on that apex? It's easy to see the line from this car's cockpit. The seat covers are new and duplicate the originals with textured inserts that are grippy and help keep you cool. The no-nonsense instrument panel has big, bold, easy-to-read gauges and a sporting 3-spoke steering wheel is easy to grab. The shifter is mere inches away and now links to 5 gears instead of 4, an invisible upgrade that pays big dividends when you're hustling down your favorite country road. Everything's manually controlled, but remember what I said about this car including everything you need with no extras? That's totally the point.

The 2002's beauty is its minimalism, and as a result the 2.0-liter inline-four moves it with gusto. Removing weight is the same as adding horsepower, and it helps with so many other things, including handling and braking. And that's exactly why these cars are so popular with enthusiasts-driving it hard is a joy and you don't need to go 170 MPH to do it. It's involving and invigorating, requiring skill and finesse, and rewarding talent. The engine bay itself is highly detailed and exceptionally clean, but not modified in any major way, so it's also quite reliable. The 5-speed manual is a good upgrade and as long as you're under there, dig the 2-into-1 exhaust system that sounds great and doesn't have any catalytic converter gumming up the works. The all-independent suspension is supple yet agile and the brakes are competent. Nice BMW alloys look right and wear modestly sized (AKA affordable) 185/70/13 radials at all four corners.

BMW fans know this is a great car. If you're not a fan, why not see what all the fuss is about and call today!