BMW Heritage Department confirm that this BMW left the factory in Germany on 22nd December 1971 for export to a BMW dealership in Italy. The original colour is ‘Atlantik’ (paint code 041).
The alloy wheels are very rare, BMW authorised and dealer supplied upgrades, 13” x 5.5” cast alloys made by the Italian company FPS and only available in Italy at that time. The steering wheel is a rare option, normally only fitted to the BMW 2002 Tii. The original steering wheel is also included.
The car had a full restoration in Italy some years ago, including a full mechanical overhaul. Parts replaced included fuel lines and brake pipes, fuel pump and an expensive new distributor with electronic ignition. The car had a full respray in the original ‘BMW Atlantik’ dark blue colour. This car has the earlier type round rear lights and aluminium grill. During the restoration, modern sound deadening panels were fitted to the floor and all the carpets, dash cover and headlining were replaced with OE specification replacements. The front and rear seat covers were also replaced with new seat covers fitted.
There are some, but not many, Italian documents in the history file.
In 2021 the car was imported to the UK. Although already in very good condition, over £1,200 was spent on parts that year at BMW specialists, Jaymic, to really bring the car up to a good standard and to ensure it was a reliable, ‘jump in and use anytime’ Classic.
The mileage shows 14,000km, but this is obviously more likely to be 114,000km. The car is reliable, drives well and has been fully serviced and has 4 new-ish Hankook Optimo tyres.
In late 2023 the vehicle was appraised by Bonhams Auctioneers, who described it’s condition as ‘very, very good with excellent bodywork’ and that it ‘runs and drives beautifully’.
Obviously it is Left Hand Drive. All the windows mechanisms work properly and the rear, front and quarter light windows operate as they should. One key fits all the locks including the ignition. While in good condition, it is a 53 year old car and is in use regularly, so there are a couple of very small marks in the paintwork if you look closely. The rear exhaust box needs a welded repair or replacement. Fortunately these are still available new and there a couple advertised on eBay for £75-100.
The clock on the dashboard has never worked and is stuck at 11.40 (that does mean it is right twice a day!). All the other guages and dials work as they should. There is a little bit of pitting on the centre section of the rear bumper which does polish off but comes back every few weeks.
Hopefully the photos clearly show the condition of the car, including the couple of minor marks in the paintwork.
I have the V5 in my name and some bills and receipts for the period since it was imported. It is essentially identical to the 2002, but with the 1600cc engine as opposed to the 2-litre. Both models are getting harder to find and prices are definitely rising as more people appreciate these classic saloons which really changed the fortunes of BMW and led to their prominence in the performance saloon market.
Due to it’s age, this vehicle is MOT and Road Tax exempt and exempt from ULEZ charges.
The car is used regularly and I live near Guildford in Surrey. Only offered for sale as I have the opportunity to buy a Karmann Ghia from a friend, which I’ve had my eye on for some time.