1602

STORY

The BMW 2002 was the compact sports sedan that defined BMW's modern character: a light two-door body, a punchy 2.0-litre four and rear-wheel drive tuned for driving pleasure. Part of the 02 Series launched in 1966, the 2002 became a cult hit in the United States and helped establish BMW's "sporty saloon" identity long before the 3 Series existed.

Its high point was the 2002 turbo of 1973, Europe's first turbocharged production car, which beat the Porsche 911 Turbo to market. With around 170 hp from its boosted four, mirror-image "turbo" script on the front spoiler and flared arches, it was a genuine sensation. Arriving just as the global oil crisis hit, it sold in tiny numbers. Only about 1,672 were built, which only deepened its legend.