Comprehensively restored between 2017 and 2021 with documented expenditure exceeding £80,000
Upgraded drivetrain featuring a rebuilt BMW M44 1.9-litre engine, Getrag 240 five-speed gearbox and limited-slip differential
Uprated braking, suspension and steering
Driven across Europe without mechanical issues
Voluntary MOT valid until 27th April 2027
For further enquires please reach out to edward.spence@carandclassic.com
The Appeal
Widely regarded as the car that established BMW's sporting credentials, the 2002 in fuel-injected tii form offered a level of performance and engagement that was remarkable for its era and remains deeply rewarding today. Finding one that has been thoroughly sorted and is ready to drive with confidence is another matter entirely.
This 1975 example has benefited from a comprehensive restoration carried out between 2017 and 2021, with documented expenditure exceeding £80,000. Prior to the rebuild, the car had spent a considerable period in barn storage and had suffered significant corrosion. All known rust was addressed with extensive metalwork before the shell and panels were refinished in Granada Red Metallic. The interior was renewed with reupholstered light-coloured trim, new carpets and additional sound insulation.
Mechanically, the car has been substantially upgraded. A rebuilt BMW M44 1.9-litre engine replaces the original unit, paired with a Getrag 240 five-speed gearbox and a 3.91:1 limited-slip differential. The braking system, suspension and steering have all been uprated to complement the improved powertrain. The vendor reports that the car starts readily, pulls strongly and has proven reliable, having been driven across Europe without fault.
Acquired by the current owner in January 2024, the car has been continuously maintained and improved since. An extensive file of invoices, restoration records and service documentation accompanies the sale, offering the next keeper a clear picture of the work carried out and the investment made.
The vendor says:
"It is an absolute joy to drive. The M44 engine gives the car strong performance, while the upgraded suspension, brakes and limited-slip differential make it feel sharp, responsive and confidence-inspiring on modern roads. It has all the mechanical involvement that makes classic motoring so special, with a fantastic exhaust note and a driving experience that always feels memorable, whether on a local run or a long-distance road trip. One of the things I love most about the car is the reaction it receives wherever it goes. It attracts constant thumbs-ups, conversations at fuel stations and compliments from both classic car enthusiasts and people who simply appreciate a beautiful car. The Granada Red Metallic paintwork is particularly special. It looks elegant and understated, but when the sun hits it, the colour comes alive, and the car looks absolutely magnificent. Having driven it across Europe without any mechanical issues, I would not hesitate to get in and drive it anywhere. It is a well-sorted, highly usable classic that has benefited from a huge amount of investment and care, and it remains one of the most enjoyable cars I have owned."image.png2.11 MB
Key Information
Mileage: 7,200 miles (indicated)
Technical inspection status: MOT valid until 27th April 2027 (MOT/road tax exempt)
Engine & Drivetrain: Sourced BMW Z3 1.9 donor vehicle for M44 engine; fitted M44 conversion with E30 M40 Getrag 240 gearbox, custom E30 upper/lower sumps, new engine gaskets, crank seals, thermostat, and water pump.
Engine Management & Exhaust: Installed modified ECU (mapped to 7,000 rpm / 159 bhp with EWS delete & speed input), conversion exhaust manifold, and full stainless steel exhaust system
Cooling & Driveline: Fitted E36 4-cylinder radiator; modified and balanced propshaft with new centre bearing and rubber coupling; fitted 3.91:1 LSD with fresh LSD oil.
Fuel & Electrical: Installed new fuel pump, filter, lines/fittings, and boot-integrated fuel system; relocated battery to boot with extensive wiring loom integratio
Brakes: Installed brake servo, new brake pipework, E30 master cylinder, E21 323i vented front discs with refurbished front calipers & spacer kit, E21/Turbo-type 250mm rear brake conversion, and braided brake/clutch hoses
Suspension & Steering: Installed Eibach springs, new centre link, track rods, negative-camber plates, and front tie-bar poly bushes.
Instruments & NVH: Fitted electronic speedometer conversion/pick-up, rev-counter integration, sound deadening, new headlining, and roof-panel wor
Interior & Audio: Completed carpet and interior trim work; installed Alpine speakers and Kenwood under-seat subwoofer.
Exterior & Wheels: Installed new glass, seals, and trim; fitted wheels with staggered Hankook tyres and Alpina-branded centre caps/badges
Commissioning: Completed MOT, road testing, and final fettling
10/19 – Jaymic (£1,868.85 total across two orders)
Supplied brake/suspension upgrade components and fuel-system parts
10/19 – VWJM (£373.00)
Supplied remote brake servo delivered for installation
09/18 – Classic World Racing Ltd (£9,179.28)
Completed front axle/suspension, steering, brake hydraulics, clutch hydraulics, and fuel system mechanical restoration
12/17 – On2One Motorsport (£7,000.00)
Supplied two used doors, stripped/blasted bodyshell, doors, front wings, boot lid, and bonnet.
Repainted body in Granada Red Metallic 023 and applied stone-chip finish to underside, chassis, and boot.
05/17 – Classic World Racing Ltd (£7,357.93)
Completed initial structural and mechanical restoration work
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