Description
The Neue Klasse was created to close the gap in BMW production between the economy motorcycle-engined cars and the heavier ‘Baroque Angel’ saloons. Unveiled as 1500 at 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show it featured a design by Wilhelm Hofmeister and Giovanni Michelotti that displayed elements that would soon be established as BMW’s trademark including the upright kidney grilles, the round headlights, the shark nose profile and the C pilar kink. In the mid 60s Hofmeister commissioned Georg Bertram and Manfred Rennen to create a 2-door version that would be a lighter and more agile performer. Despite being initially offered with 1. 6 lt engine, BMW decided to fit a 2. 0lt powerplant an upgrade formerly selected and tested by BMW’s director of product planning and its M10 engine designer.
The 2002 offered was produced in Malaga red over black and dispatched to Greece in late 1972. In 1997 it changed hands to a collector who regularly maintained the car with impeccable service notes. In 20016 it became part of a private collection of 70s sports tourers where it was treated with a new trunk floor and door trim panels supplied by Germany’s 02 Neue Klasse parts experts. After 52 years and 116265 km of excellent maintenance and indoor storage, this 2002 is offered in its factory original coat of Malaga paint and in stellar mechanical condition throughout.
Specifications
Year: 1972
Make: BMW
Series: Neue Klasse 02 E10
Designers: Wilhelm Hofmeister and Giovanni Michelotti
Developers: Georg Bertram and Manfred Rennen
Model: 2002
Body type: 2 door sedan
Chassis number: 3635165
Engine series: M10
Engine number: 3635165
Engine type: 1990 cc, in line 4 cyl., SOHC, Solex 40PDSI carburetted, 100 bhp at 5500 rpm 157 Nm at 3500 rpm
Transmission type: 4 speed, manual
Exterior color, code: Malaga red, 021
Interior color, trim: black, vinyl
Mileage: 116265 km
