Highlights

Engine completely rebuilt with forged JE pistons, Schlick 292 cam and a big valve head, producing approx 140 bhp
Running at 2002TI spec
Previously owned by George Thornton - team manager for Surtees and then for Brabham
Accompanying Brabham race / pit crate
Bare metal respray, preserving all original panels
Last on the road in 1979, recently recommissioned

The Appeal

The BMW 2002 is in many ways one of the big keystones for the German carbuilder. Known for its sporty performance and compact design, the 02 series took the company's New Class sedan and shrunk it back into a shorter, sportier wheelbase. The result was a car that offered agile performance, impressive speed on the road and - of course - carried the distinctive styling that became the company's trademark.

Originally delivered to the UK, then based in South Africa from 1969 to 1974, this particular car was originally owned by George Thornton of Team Brabham Racing fame and kept in his dry, well-equipped workshop until around 2021. As a result, it's only been on British asphalt for around 5 years - no doubt commensurate with its remarkable corrosion-free appearance.

During the 70s under Thornton's instructions, the car was built to TI spec with twin Solex carbs, sports cam, koni suspension, and original Alpina spoiler. The car is sat atop very rare Borrani CMR 6x13 wheels. It's worth noting that the TI was never built in RHD. Observant viewers will note the 77 Pit Pass still in the window, and plenty of racing accoutrements in the paperwork file.

The car's original panels have been preserved during a bare metal respray, and the interior remains in very good condition. Put simply, it's a magnificent classic car that's going to turn plenty of heads, with a curious racing history that's likely to engage even the most cynical enthusiast.

History and Paperwork

Built in 1969 and delivered to the UK
Previously owned by Brabham's George Thornton
Based in South Africa with him until 1974
Returned to the UK and rebuilt to TI spec with sporty modifications upon his instruction
Last on the road in 1979
Acquired by the current owner in November 2021 and fully restored
Re-registered in March 2023
Accompanied by a substantial amount of paperwork, including some invoices and service book stamps
This includes plenty of bits and pieces from its racing heritage, including a Pit Pass from 1977 still in the window
The vendor has further correspondence regarding George Thornton's life that he's happy to provide
Indicates 91,207 miles

About George Thornton

George Thornton first got interested in motor racing in the early '60s, and was involved in running the Marlborough racing circuit in then-South African Rhodesia. He then went to Europe in the mid-60s with Trevor Blokdyk, who raced in F2 and sadly had a bad accident in Albi France, which ended his career.

George went back to SA/Rhodesia but came back shortly afterwards, and got involved with sports car racing as a mechanic. Here, he worked for Privateers including Edward Nelson, Jackie Epstein and Malcolm Guthrie. Following this, he took part in several Springbok Series in the late '60s/early '70s - with Mike Hailwood Peter Gethin and others. Soon enough, he back to Europe in 1969 and bought the BMW listed here.

In the early 70s, George then returned to South Africa to do the Springbok series and shipped the car with him. Here, he remained in SA for three years working for John McNicol in the F5000 series. The car, as a result, was driven all over SA/Rhodesia.

In 1973/ 74 he returned to the UK to work for John Surtees at Edenbridge as team manager, and the BMW came back too. George then used it for a few more years, then it was stored away because George went to work for Brabham as general manager and got a company car. He remained at Brabham and stayed on when it was sold and became Activa technology.

The Condition

No welding required, all original panels preserved
Bare metal respray completed in red
Chromework is nicely presented
All badges and branding are in good order
Sitting atop CMR wheels
Underside is nicely presented with no corrosion
Interior is very original and in good condition
Upholstery is free of any rips or tears
Dashboard is clean and well-kept
Some discolouration to the headlining

The Mechanics

1,990 cc M10 I4 powerplant
Manual transmission with 4 gears
Engine completely rebuilt with forged JE pistons, Schlick 292 cam, big valve head, producing approximately 140 bhp
Brakes have been rebuilt
The vendor notes that the car drives exceptionally well
We've no reports of any leaks or mechanical issues

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.

✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.

✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.