1973 BMW 2002 Baur Convertible

1973 BMW 2002 Baur Convertible Transmission: manual Mileage:78805 The BMW 2002 series is important in the history of BMW for several reasons; not least of which being that it brought the company out of near bankruptcy in the 1960s and put BMW on the map in the United States. It was the ancestral grandfather to the BMW 3 Series and was produced from 1968 to 1976. German BMW importer Max Hoffman is credited with the car's creation. He had suggested to BMW's engineering director that a 2.0 litre engine should be installed into the small two-door 1602 to improve performance and emissions. The resulting 2002 (named after the new motor's displacement) was popular in its first year on sale. This BMW 2002 is one of only 354 examples manufactured in right hand drive format. Conversions on these outstanding vehicles were carried out by coachbuilder Karosserie Baur in Stuttgart. Baur retained a 'T' bar in the roof design helping to dramatically reduce any scuttle shake.This stunning 2002 convertible by Baur is presented in deep Atlantic Blue with contrasting houndstooth trim and presented in excellent order. Restored in the mid-90s by specialists Jaymic with modifications including five-speed BMW 5 series gearbox, electric power steering, Weber twin-choke 34-36 carburettor conversion complete with correct electric fuel pump, a Schrick cam, engine re-build in 2016 with electronic ignition and stainless steel exhaust system, re-built centre console with new dials and a modern sound system including Apple Play and bluetooth phone system. The bodywork has been restored and repainted, a new Targa top fitted and upholstery renovated with new 'original' houndstooth check cloth and blue vinyl imported from Germany. Sitting on original steel wheels and hubcaps with a fabulous Mountney steering wheel, the car is accompanied by a history file including photo records of the restoration works, a large file of invoices going back to 1991 and MoT records back to 1984 which suggests that the mileage is correct. The vendor informs us that during the summer of 2021 the odometer stopped working, although the speedometer is working correctly and few miles have been covered since, but this would benefit from replacing or repairing. A rare and desirable 2002 for which viewing is highly recommended.