While I’m an 80s fan myself, it doesn’t take much imagination to see why the classy Bimmers of the 70s have so many fans. From the E9 to the Bavaria, this was the era that really saw BMW gain worldwide acclaim as the people’s sports car. The 2002 is one of the main reasons BMW is still cashing checks on their reputation for sports sedans, bringing great handling and smart styling to the world, along with some delightfully funky colors. Today’s Golf Yellow example features one of the hues that might be maligned on most cars, yet seems playful and fitting on these machines that seem to perform so many duties well. Quite clean at first glance, this example is not without its share of needs, but none severe enough to keep it from being a fun driver immediately. A 5-speed from an E21 helps perk it up from the original slushbox, along with headers and exhaust. There are many tasks to be completed if you want this to be among the super clean Neue Klassen, but the tinted windows will help hide the inside while the attractive exterior distracts.
Click for details: 1976 BMW 2002 on eBay
Year: 1976
Model: 2002
Engine: 2.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: Not Listed
Price: Reserve Auction
Solid 1976 BMW 2002 in hard-to-find Golf yellow. I have put much effort into making this one a more reliable ’02 that is ready for its next life in your loving hands. It will be best for those who appreciate these great cars and still have some desire to do a few small interior or exterior restoration projects with it… (or just taking it now and having a blast driving it from day 1!).
When I purchased this ’02, it was running on its original (sluggish) automatic transmission so I purchased a rebuilt 5 speed transmission out of a 1981 320i and had it converted by a local BMW specialty shop that has done this type of work many times (with many happy customers) here in Portland, OR. Newer repairs / replacements that have been performed within the past 18 months are as follows:
electronic ignition
short throw shifter kit
oil pump
engine mounts
main engine seal
Ireland Engineering header and exhaust system
rear brake wheel cylinders
all door / trunk / window gaskets
L/R window regulators
new roundels
tires (~5000 miles and less than two years old)
E30 bottle cap wheels (good condition but not restored)
new passenger side tail light lens
wiper blades (replaced in the past month)
There is NO SMOG EQUIPMENT on this car.
Cosmetically, this 2002 is in good condition for a car of this age. It has some minor rust here and there, but nothing that is compromising structural integrity (surface rust exists in the spare wheel well, and around front turn signal housings, rocker arms are sound). The body is straight, and with the exception of the driver’s side front bumper rubber accordion boot being cracked, the bumpers are in good shape.
The interior is in fair condition. The front seat upholstery could be replaced (or new seats installed) but is still functional as is. Back bench is a candidate for replacement but is also functional (just not super cozy). The dash has a few typical cracks in the usual spots but nothing obscene, headliner is a tad bit saggy around the sunroof opening, center console is a bit scuffed, and the heater does not function. All gauges function properly (analog clock does not). Odometer is stuck at ~35,000 (a common problem with this model). All lighting and signaling are operable, no electrical problems, cosmetically all interior and exterior body components are original. Original AM/FM Blaupunkt radio works. Yakima roof rack can stay or go, your choice, same price.
This 1976 BMW 2002 looks and runs great, and turns heads wherever it goes! You are buying an excellent vehicle that has had much of the major work done while holding on to a lot of original charm. Plus all original bill of sale and paper work from the first owner’s factory demo trip in Germany in 1976 before he took delivery in the east bay area of San Francisco! This car is too much fun. Get it while you can!
Clear title
All shop records from myself and previous owners will come with the vehicle
No matter the color or condition, I always smile when I see a little 2002 bombing down the road. While I respect the cream puffs out there setting the standard, I think 40 year old cars have a right to be a little rough around the edges as long as they can still be enjoyed. This 2002 certainly looks like it has quite a few mountain roads left in it, and apparently the bidding public thinks so too as the auction is hot despite not cracking the reserve yet. I’d want to know at least an estimate of actual mileage before going in, but having documentation back to the original SF delivery is a good start. Landing somewhere around $6-7k would make this a fun purchase of some 1970s mojo.
-NR
