1973 BMW 2002 Targa *Sold £8,750*

Description

• Same owner for 42 years
• Taiga Green
• Many new parts
• Drives “perfectly”
• Used for a number of runs and events
• Only 2,500 Baur Cabriolets were built

As early as 1963 there had been discussions about a new BMW. Thoughts began to coalesce on a two-door version of the ‘New Class’ saloon. The plan was to re-establish the sporting image that BMW had enjoyed in the 1930’s.

In 1966, the New Class was born. It’s first iteration was the 1600-02 with 1,573cc engine. The motoring press made very favourable comparisons with Alfa Romeo. The Germans raised a smile at that. We guess they were happy.

Not long after the 1600-2 was announced, Alex von Falkenhausen, designer of the BMW M10 engine had a 2-litre engine dropped into a 2002 for his own use. Completely independently, BMW’s Planning Director Helmut Werner Bonsch did exactly the same. Neither knew of the other’s car until both cars were in the factory workshops at BMW. Between them they decided to put a formal proposal to the BMW Board for production.

BMW Sales Director Paul Hahnemann was well aware of the potential in US market, so he supported the proposal for a 2ltr, 100bhp version. The BMW 2002 was born.

There were three distinct generations of the BMW 2002 range during its eight and a half year production life. The first gen cars were built between 1968-1971. The second gen, were built between 1971-1973. The third gen models were the final cars built between 1973-1976.

Only just over 2,500 Baur Cabriolets were produced. Few survive today.

This one has had one owner for the past 42 years.

Overview

In the UK it is estimated that home owners move on average every 7/8 years. Our vendors, Tony and Jacky with this classic BMW 2002, have moved homes four times together. The car is part of the family.

When they bought the BMW 2002, it had a body kit on it. It wasn’t to their liking so off it came and the car went back to factory spec. The floor needed attention and Tony drafted his father in law to do the welding.

Between all of them, they have kept this special little BMW 2002 going. It does have paperwork with it, but as you can imagine after over 40 years of ownership and four house moves some of it has gone astray. Tony and Jacky do have a wealth of information about the 2002, and if any bidders would like any queries answered they’ve said they would be delighted to do so.

A new, but second-hand complete interior was found and installed. The cabin space is superb.

The driving position is spot-on and there’s no arguing with the quality of the materials. Even half a century ago, BMW had clearly mastered the art of solid construction and efficient interiors.

The all-important Baur roof is in good condition. Note the condition of the rear window. We don’t often see them like that.

New discs and calipers have been fitted along with numerous suspension bushes. There are numerous MOTs in the pack. A new alternator was installed recently.

Jacky and Tony are very straight Yorkshire folk. They tell us, “there is a small whine from the rear diff. If we were keeping the 2002 we’d probably replace the weatherstrips as we went. The BMW drives perfect and is used regularly. This lovely rare vehicle is in fair condition. There is one small scrape on the offside rear quarter that has been touched up which can be seen in the photos. It is garaged. It is a beautiful Taiga green and turns heads when it has been used on many car runs. We want a change hence the reason for the sale. The vehicle has had many new parts and it runs on unleaded fuel”.

Not only are Yorkshire folk straight, they are a succinct lot as well!

The classic BMW has been used for a number of events, runs and rallies, including recently the well known Yorkshire-Bradford run. It’s never let them down.

Our view

The 2002 was a huge car for BMW. During the 1960’s the Company was struggling. Their best known vehicle was the Isseta ‘bubble’ car. This 2002 re-launched BMW providing a springboard for the global success that is BMW today – The Ultimate Driving Machine.

The 2002’s are very sought after, by collectors and enthusiasts alike. The Targas are now exceedingly rare. To find one in this condition with one owner for the last 42 years is very unusual.

Prices in the last 2-3 years have been spiralling. It is common to see BMW 2002’s reach £15-20,000. Don’t worry, our concise Yorkshire vendors are extremely grounded. The reserve is very sensible. It reflects the accurate description and condition of the 2002, with the balance of being a rare Baur Convertible.

The only reason this BMW 2002 is coming to market is Tony and Jacky would like a “change”. They’ve had other cars along the way, including a Mexico and Riley. That means some lucky bidder is getting a great little classic 2002.

Vehicle Location: Skipton BD28– it’s the responsibility of the winning bidder to make collection / transportation arrangements directly with the vendor

Have a question about this vehicle? Please contact the Evoke team at auction@evoke-classics.com and we will speak to the vendor on your behalf.

Guide Prices?

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