Find of the Week: 1972 BMW 2002tii

BMW’s successful foray into the entry-level sport sedan market began in 1966 with its new lineup of affordable, two-door sedans beginning with the 1600-2 (later called the 1602), followed by the sportier and more popular BMW 2002 (1968-1975).  The 2002, predecessor to the 3 Series, launched BMW into the international spotlight, solidifying its image as a major manufacturer of sporty and affordable, fun-to-drive performance automobiles.

The original BMW 2002ti (Touring Internationale) was offered with a dual carburetor 120-hp four-cylinder engine but in 1971 fuel injection was introduced to the 2002tii (Touring Internationale Injection), increasing its horsepower to 130. With its lightweight unit body construction, four-wheel independent suspension, rear-wheel drive, front disc brakes, four-speed manual transmission and peppy 130-hp 2.0-litre overhead cam four-cylinder engine, the 2002 provided lively performance along with the practicality of a roomy five-seat cabin, a large trunk and a tall ‘greenhouse’ that provided excellent visibility and plenty of headroom for driver and passengers.

This particular example, a rust-free 1972 2002tii, was originally imported from the U.S.A.  It underwent extensive restoration in 2010-11 at a BMW dealer in Ontario where a previous owner spent over $10,000 in mostly OEM parts and labour.  A partial list of upgrades included a new water pump, clutch slave cylinder, shifter bushings, shocks, muffler, tail pipe, engine gaskets, drive shaft, seals, belts, hoses, engine mounts, new front fenders, and a professional repaint in its original colour.

It’s a real looker: original alloy wheels, glossy paint, well-preserved chrome trim, twin front fog lights and attractive tan cloth/vinyl upholstery make this car particularly attractive.  Early 2002s like this one had attractive, slim chrome bumpers while later models had larger, less appealing rubber bumpers.

With only 43,478 miles (69,971 km) on the odometer after 43 years, this 2002tii has averaged only 1,600 km per year! According to Hagerty’s classic car valuation guide, early BMW 2002s are appreciating in value. For its asking price of $29,900, it would be hard to find a nicer example of this iconic BMW automobile.

It’s available at MVL Leasing in Oakville, Ontario.