There was a time when manual transmissions were the norm in almost all foreign cars sold in the USA. By contrast, imports with automatic transmissions were relatively rare, often with a badge on the rear to call out this usually high-cost option. This 1973 BMW 2002, available here on eBay in Sparks Glencoe, Maryland, has an “Automatic” script on the back which lets you know that the original buyer shelled out $334 for this option.

Being a ‘73, this 2002 is the final year of the “roundie” body with circular taillights, and the last time the 2002 was sold in the USA without giant federally mandated 5-mph impact absorbing bumpers that arrived in 1974. Said to be an original California car, this one has lived in Maryland since 2007 where it was used by the seller’s daughter as a daily driver from 2008 through 2016. Given the fact that there is some rust on the bottoms of the rocker panels and trunk area, it can be assumed that it was used year-round during this time, which is a shame as these cars will deteriorate quickly when exposed to road salt. The front fenders, hood, and apron were replaced in 2011 and it was repainted in Sahara Beige. A potential buyer will want to ask about that work as it could be a result of collision damage.

There are almost no photos of the interior, aside from some showing worn carpet and a cracked dash. The headliner is said to be in good condition, but is not pictured. The seller indicates that this 2002 was equipped with a dealer installed Frigiking air conditioning, though the compressor and condenser are missing. If so inclined, a buyer could try to revive this system using BMW “Hack Mechanic” Rob Siegel’s vintage air conditioning book as a guide.

Under the hood is the original 2.0 four which is said to run smoothly and idle well, though there is some smoke in the exhaust. A two-barrel Weber 32/36 sits in place of the original carburetor, and power is delivered through a three-speed ZF automatic transmission, which is said to have never given any trouble. No details are offered about the condition of the suspension or brakes aside from a mention of new brake pads.

With just two days left to go, the reserve has not been met with more than 30 bids currently topping out at $9,100. Hagerty values a #4 Fair condition 1973 2002 at $11,300 with a 15% penalty for automatic transmission, putting this one at just under $10,000. Hopefully the reserve is not much more than this. Would you drive this one as-is and let it shift for you, or use it as the basis for a restoration with some performance modifications and a manual transmission swap?