The BMW 2002 is part of the BMW 02 Series that was produced from 1966 to 1977. This compact car laid the groundwork for what would later become the iconic 3 Series and was a game-changer in BMW's history. Under the guidance of designer Wilhelm Hofmeister and engineer Alex von Falkenhausen, the BMW 2002 quickly became one of the most popular cars of its time. With a motor that packed up to 170 horsepower in the 2002 Turbo, it turned into a symbol of sporty driver focus and technical precision. Interestingly, the BMW 2002 was developed in response to the demand for a more powerful compact car, as its predecessor, the BMW Neue Klasse, just didn’t cut it for that segment.
The base version of the BMW 2002 had a 2.0-liter (122 cubic inches) 4-cylinder engine that produced between 100 to 130 horsepower, depending on the model. The tuned versions and the 2002 Turbo truly showcased the car's power. It had a rear axle with coil springs and disc brakes in the front, plus drum brakes at the back. The Kugelfischer fuel injection in the higher-performance models ensured better combustion and increased power. Thanks to its compact build, low weight, and balanced weight distribution, the BMW 2002 was a breeze to maneuver both on the road and the racetrack. The straightforward interior design maximized functionality without unnecessary luxury, making it particularly appealing to sporty drivers.
The BMW 2002 was a big hit in motorsports. Famous drivers like Hans-Joachim Stuck and Chris Amon took the car to some impressive racing successes, especially in touring car championships. During the ETCC (European Touring Car Championship), the 2002 repeatedly showed its superiority with its agile handling and reliable engine. It also shined in hill climb races and national events across Europe. A highlight was its performance in the German Racing Championship (DRM) where it faced tough international competition and emerged victorious. It impressed not only with technical features but also with the passion of its drivers.
The model car from Trofeu in 1/43 scale, part of the collection from Modelly member "TrolleyJack," perfectly captures the BMW 2002 in racing trim. This model flaunts the race number 36 and features numerous sponsor logos, including ARAL, BOSCH, Texaco, and Veedol. One standout detail is the two-tone paint job in white and blue, giving the car a genuine racing vibe. The front is accentuated by four additional round headlights, while the back sports a red decal with a star pattern. Slim blue stripes run along the roof and sides, creating a dynamic yet cohesive appearance for the model.
The level of detail in the 1/43 models is really impressive, clearly seen in the well-defined lines and precisely applied sponsor logos and decals. The model's wheels are also realistically rendered, closely matching the original's design. The interior features elements like a roll cage, bucket seats, and a minimalist cockpit, further emphasizing its racing character. The silver wheels and black rubber tires provide a great contrast to the two-tone paint. Models from Trofeu are known for their attention to detail, and this one definitely meets those expectations. It reflects the racing history of the original and gives collectors an excellent example of the blend between historic motorsport and model-making art.
Chriskitt
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💙🤍😎👍👍 Great Car 🚗 👍
Chriskitt
Auto-translated
💙🤍😎👍👍 Great Car 🚗 👍