Description
An exceptional, usable example of the legendary BMW 2002 Tii finished in its iconic and striking original factory colour of Verona Red. This is the highly coveted early ‘roundie’ model, featuring the mechanical Kugelfischer fuel injection system that completely transformed the 2002 into a true sports saloon icon.
This stunning example appears to have been in essentially the same family ownership for most of its life, passing from the second owner to his brother and then subsequently, to his brother’s wife. According to DVLA records, I am the fifth recorded keeper having purchased the car in 2022.
While there is little in the way of recorded service history prior to my own ownership, there is a comprehensive folder of paperwork supporting an extensive restoration process undertaken by the former family owners approximately 25 years ago, including many replacement parts from ’02 specialists, Jaymic. There is also paperwork to support the further interior and mechanical restoration work carried out during my ownership. As will be noted from the MOT history, the car appears to have had very little use following its original restoration and prior to my purchase, covering less than 1, 000 miles over a 17-year period.
This ‘02 has been thoughtfully restored over the years to preserve its authentic 1970s driving dynamics while ensuring structural integrity and mechanical reliability. Subject to a prior sympathetic body restoration that included replacing all of the chrome and other brightwork, the Verona Red paintwork although not original, has been resprayed to a high standard, is bright with a deep shine but is showing some very minor age-related imperfections as expected of a well-loved Condition 2/ 3 driver. The common 2002 weak spots including the inner wings, rear shock towers (replaced during restoration), sills, and floor pans are solid, clean, and well-preserved.
The car has been fitted with a BMW factory exchange Tii engine at some point during the late 1980’s. (A stamp on the side of the replacement engine confirms a manufacturing date of 1987). Due to the length of time that the car had been in storage, some essential mechanical recommissioning work was carried out in 2022 by the dealer from whom I purchased the car, that included overhauling the brakes and fitting a new exhaust. During my ownership and in addition to regular oil and coolant changes, I have subsequently fitted a new coil and electronic ignition and road tuned the car. It starts and runs smoothly, pulling strongly through all 4 gears. I have also upgraded the rather tired original Sachs dampers with Bilstein sports dampers (original dampers will be supplied with the car) replaced the engine mounts and all of the suspension bushes on the front end. The suspension bushes on the rear end would also now benefit from replacement. I had intended to carry out this work myself but unfortunately, no longer have the facilities. However, a full set of new bushes will be supplied with the car.
The interior strikes the perfect balance between restored comfort and period originality, the dashboard being in excellent order, the original dials functioning as they should and the seats being firm and free of tears. As the cloth upholstery was very worn when I purchased the car, I commissioned the re-upholstery of the seats with matching BMW cloth. I have also re-trimmed the interior of the boot and re-instated the under-bonnet insulation. The car is currently fitted with an aftermarket Italian wood-rim steering wheel. However, the car will come with a period-correct original version, as well as the newer style fitted to later models, so the new owner will have a choice to suit their personal preference.
Genuine reason for sale of this much-admired car. Happy to share additional information with seriously-interested parties.
