Rediscovered in 2015 after 25 years, beautifully preserved in dry storage
Full matching chassis, gearbox and engine numbers
Comprehensive mechanical restoration with numerous thoughtful upgrades
Regular oil analysis confirms excellent engine health
Completely solid original body structure that has never required welding
Discreetly integrated Apple CarPlay system
The Appeal
The 2002 is widely celebrated as the car that established BMW's sporting credentials, combining compact dimensions with spirited performance and engaging rear-wheel drive handling. These were the cars that took on Britiain's Ford Escorts, Italy's 105-Series Alfas in touring car competition, proving as beautifully balanced as any of its competitors and likely the best-engineered car in its class.
This 1973 example has a fabulous story to tell, having been stored for approximately 25 years before being rediscovered when its storage unit faced demolition in 2015. Since then, it has undergone a comprehensive mechanical restoration while maintaining its authentic original character.
The vendor recounts:
"Simply looking at this car is a joy — it has a presence that draws attention and admiration. But owning and driving it? That’s an entirely different experience, and one I can honestly say has left a lasting impression. I’ve driven many cars, yet none have stirred the same emotion or delivered the kind of connection this one has.
"This isn’t just a purchase of metal and rubber — it’s an investment in heritage, in a story that spans decades, and in an experience that only its next caretaker will fully come to appreciate. There’s a depth to this car that goes beyond the drive — it’s about the feeling, the journey, and the pride of being part of something truly special.
"I’m not in a position where I need to sell the car, nor am I trying to convince anyone. The right person will recognise what it is — something you can simply turn the key and enjoy from the moment it arrives
"My first drive in the 2002 is something I’ll never forget. I booked a meal in Bowness-on-Windermere and intentionally left late, giving myself a reason to really open it up. The drive was sublime—the exhaust note echoing through the lanes, sunlight gleaming off the freshly painted bonnet. I’ve driven many cars, but none have matched the raw, emotional connection I felt that day.
"Since then, the car has been used sparingly on sunny days for visits to family. The rest of the time it’s been stored off the ground in a heated workshop.
"Why Am I Selling?
It’s a tough question. The truth is, I’m satisfied. Satisfied that I restored this piece of automotive history to a beautiful standard. Satisfied that I’ve made unforgettable memories. And satisfied knowing that it’s ready to be enjoyed and appreciated for many more years to come.
"This is not just a car—it’s a story, a legacy, and a deeply rewarding passion project. I hope the next owner continues that legacy."
Stored in a unit with components removed and sealed in bags
Body coated in protective wax-oil treatment
Rediscovered in 2015 when storage unit was being demolished
Passed through two owners who began restoration work
Current owner completed comprehensive mechanical restoration
Regular oil analysis using testing kits shows engine health
Used sparingly on sunny days; not seen rain since completion of the restoration
Stored off the ground in a heated workshop when not in use
The vendor tells its story:
"This BMW 2002 comes with a rare and emotional history, pieced together with the help of its previous owners—who have kindly given permission to share their story.
"Originally purchased new by its first owner, the car was loved and enjoyed by him and his family until it was parked around 1990. With space in the garage becoming an issue, the car was quietly moved to a local storage unit, unbeknownst to the rest of the family. Carefully preserved, various components were removed and sealed in bags, and the body was coated in a protective wax-oil treatment—a crucial step that helped preserve it in remarkable condition.
"Tragically, the owner passed away some years later, and the car, still tucked away in storage, was forgotten. The family continued paying the storage fees without questioning the ongoing cost, until in 2015, they were notified that the unit was being demolished and needed to be cleared.
"When the daughter visited to assess the contents, she found what she described as “bags of old car parts for that old car Dad said he sold.” Assuming it held little value, the family decided to list it for sale with a vague description: “Old BMW for sale, selling on behalf of the family. We have an idea of the price, but please call with offers.” The ad generated overwhelming interest and was removed the same day.
"One of those interested was Josh B., a BMW enthusiast looking for a classic restoration project. After persistent calling, he connected with the family, made an offer, and secured the car after a slight negotiation.
"Unfortunately, Josh underestimated the scale of the project. He attempted to remove the wax coating with sandpaper, damaging the otherwise perfectly preserved original paint. Mechanically, the car hadn’t run in 25 years. Josh and his father tried reviving it, but lacking the expertise and time, the project stalled. Eventually, due to financial pressures from another restoration, he put the 2002 up for sale once again.
"It was quickly sold to Neil B., who focused on the paintwork. Although he managed to get the engine to fire briefly using Easystart, mechanical progress was minimal. A full respray was completed, but the quality of the prep work and finish left much to be desired. Life got in the way—Neil had a wedding to save for—and the project was paused once more.
That’s where I came in. I initially walked away due to the price, but my heart overruled my head. I struck a deal and brought the 2002 home, determined to do the car justice. Upon closer inspection, it was clear that the paint would need redoing, properly this time, by a BMW specialist using the correct techniques, paint, and colour code.
"At my workshop, I thoroughly assessed every component and began sourcing genuine new-old-stock parts. What began as a few hundred pounds quickly turned into thousands, all carefully documented in the car’s portfolio. My initial goal was to make it a usable daily driver, but as the project progressed, I realised I couldn’t bear to expose it to the elements.
"As the vehicle was off the road for over 30 years, the original service records have unfortunately been lost. Following the passing of the original owner, the family was unsure where any documentation might have been stored, and to this day, it remains a mystery whether the paperwork was misplaced or still tucked away somewhere at their home.
That said, the lack of early records is more than made up for by the detailed portfolio I’ve compiled during the restoration process. This includes comprehensive documentation of every part that’s been replaced, restored, or serviced, along with supporting information and receipts. Additionally, I’ve taken over 500 photographs throughout the project, many of which will be printed and included as part of the car’s history file."
Very well cared-for and tastefully restored example
Beautiful exterior presentation with clean, straight body
Car appears in superb condition for its 50+ year age, though not presented as concours
Any minor imperfections align with the car's character and authenticity
Striking paintwork that changes appearance in different lighting
Minor issue on OS/R arch where paint appears to have cured too quickly, causing two very small fine lines
Completely solid structure that has never required welding
Underside in good shape
Some exposed steel components could be undersealed for cosmetic consistency
Interior may have been restored prior to current ownership (unconfirmed)
Discreetly integrated Apple CarPlay system (can be easily removed if desired)
Seats in very good order with no sagging or visible wear
Comfortable seats with supportive, well-preserved padding
Dashboard looks smart with only one minor hairline crack near instrument cluster
Clean headliner that could benefit from a light steam clean if being particularly fastidious
The vendor says:
"The exterior of the car presents beautifully, with a clean, straight body and a finish that consistently turns heads. The paintwork is striking and truly comes to life in different lighting — something that photos simply can’t capture. It’s a car that attracts compliments wherever it goes.
"As with any classic car that’s over 50 years old, it’s important to set realistic expectations. While the car is in excellent condition for its age, it’s not being presented as concours or flawless — but as a very well cared-for and tastefully restored example. the only area I would feel to mention is the OS/R arch where the paint looks to have cured too quickly causing two very small fine lines. Any minor imperfections that do exist are in line with the character and authenticity of a car that has seen life, but has also clearly been cherished.
"The interior is clean, tidy, and presents very well. It shows exactly the kind of gentle wear and character you’d expect from a classic car of this vintage — nothing that detracts from the experience, and certainly nothing that suggests neglect.
"Everything functions exactly as it should, and the car also benefits from a discreetly integrated Apple CarPlay system — a thoughtful addition to enhance the driving experience. This can easily be removed if a future owner prefers to return the interior to a more original setup.
"The seats are in fantastic condition, with no sagging or visible wear, and they remain very comfortable with supportive, well-preserved padding. The dashboard has also held up extremely well, showing just one very minor hairline crack near the instrument cluster — something I didn’t even notice until well into my ownership, and which could easily be repaired if desired.
"The headliner is clean and presents well overall, though a light steam clean could freshen it further — only if one were being particularly fastidious.
In short, this is a classic interior that’s both stylish and functional, offering an excellent balance of originality and usability — and sure to impress anyone who appreciates a well-kept period-correct cabin.
"Structurally, the car is completely solid and has never required any welding. The underside is in great shape, and while some exposed steel components could be undersealed for cosmetic consistency, there’s no rust or structural concern — just the kind of detail work someone particularly fastidious might choose to take on.
In short, this is a very clean, well-presented, and honestly described classic car that stands out for all the right reasons."
Engine and drivetrain have received significant attention
Blend of restoration, maintenance, and thoughtful upgrades
Many original components retained and refurbished
Numerous parts upgraded or replaced for improved reliability and drivability
Original components included with the sale
123+ Bluetooth Distributor for fine-tuned ignition settings
Bosch BMW M5 2019 Starter Motor for stronger, faster starts
NGK Iridium Spark Plugs for efficient combustion
New battery with NOCO terminals
Upgraded twin brake boosters for improved braking performance
New brake and clutch master cylinders
Fully rebuilt carburettor
New water pump and hoses
No metal or water contamination detected
Complete brake system overhaul
New clutch master cylinder with freshly bled system
Full engine service
New battery and electrical components
Corrected timing with modern distributor
Carburettor stripped, cleaned, and refurbished
Fuel system completely rebuilt
Cooling system overhauled
Driveshaft rebuilt
New exhaust system
New OEM rubbers, seals, and gaskets throughout
The vendor says:
"The engine and drivetrain have received significant attention, with a blend of restoration, maintenance, and thoughtful upgrades aimed at enhancing both reliability and drivability — all while preserving the car’s original character.
"While many original components have been retained and refurbished, numerous parts have also been upgraded or replaced to improve convenience, performance, and overall driving enjoyment. All replaced parts have been carefully selected, and many of the original components are included with the sale.
"During my ownership, the car has undergone three full engine oil flushes and services in the span of just 1,000 miles. The oil now runs clear and golden — something I’m genuinely proud of. A new-old-stock air filter has been fitted, and upgraded spark plugs have been installed to ensure optimal engine performance.
"These repeated flushes weren’t just for peace of mind — they were part of a careful recommissioning process. I also used oil testing kits between each service to monitor the engine’s internal condition. All test results came back clear, showing no traces of metal or water contamination.
"Every drop of oil during my ownership has been followed by lab analysis using oil testing kits to check for any trace of metal or water contamination — all results came back clean, showing the engine is in excellent health.
"The result of all this work is a beautifully smooth and responsive drivetrain that starts confidently, runs cleanly, and delivers a truly enjoyable and reliable classic driving experience.
"This is not just a well-maintained car — it’s one that’s been mechanically loved and carefully prepared for many more miles of confident motoring."
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