The BMW 2002 is a car that makes the hearts of many car enthusiasts beat faster. As part of the BMW 02 Series produced from 1966 to 1977, this car broke the dominant role of many of its competitors in the world of motorsports and set new standards in the automotive industry. Developed by designers Georg Bertram and Manfred Rennen, the BMW 2002 was the sporty continuation of its predecessor, the BMW 1600. Particularly popular was the 2002 tii version, equipped with a mechanical fuel injection system and producing 130 horsepower. This car was not only a hit in everyday use but also shone on racetracks and rally events worldwide.
Under the hood of the BMW 2002 was a four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 2.0 liters, highly appreciated for its reliability and performance. With a peak power of up to 170 horsepower in race-ready versions, it was capable of reaching speeds of over 200 km/h (124 mph). Technical highlights included the MacPherson suspension and disc brakes, providing excellent handling and safety. This combination of speed and stability made the car a preferred choice for rally drivers. The fuel consumption was reasonable for the time, around 10-14 liters per 100 kilometers (23.5-16.8 mpg).
The BMW 2002 achieved remarkable success in motorsport and was piloted by well-known drivers like Hans-Joachim Stuck and Jochen Neerpasch. Especially in the European Touring Car Championship and rally racing, the BMW 2002 scored numerous victories. At the TAP Rally in Portugal in 1972, the car impressed with its durability and speed. It outperformed strong competition and showed its prowess on both asphalt and gravel tracks. These victories significantly contributed to solidifying BMW's image as a manufacturer of fast and reliable sports cars.
The livery designed specifically for the TAP Rally of the BMW 2002 features colors of blue and white, a tribute to the manufacturer's Bavarian roots and national hues. The model, bearing the number 76, also displays various sponsor decals, reflecting an authentic image of the era. Sponsors include well-known brands like Pirelli, Bilstein, and Castrol. These details are faithfully replicated not only on the original car but also on the 1/18 scale model by AUTOart Millennium, capturing the emotion and accuracy of the time period.
This 1/18 scale miniature, manufactured by AUTOart Millennium, mirrors the beauty and precision of the original. Based on die-cast material, the model impresses with its accurate reproduction of the bodywork with crisp lines and detailed elements like headlights and bumpers. A standout feature of the miniature is the faithful representation of the sponsor decals and livery. Detail-oriented collectors will appreciate the subtle differences in texture and the precise placement of the square rally-style headlights. Noteworthy are the alloy wheels and authentic tire markings, harmoniously completing the overall look. This model, part of the collection of Modelly member "boxengasse," is an essential piece for any serious collector.