This 1971 BMW 2002 is a desirable round taillight model that the seller claims runs and drives quite well. The color appears to be Sahara, which is a great shade of paint on a vintage BMW like this. Sporting the pretty chrome bumpers and original hubcaps, this 2002 is a pleasing sight given most survivors are the Tii models that have been cherished since new. Combining the survivor-like condition of a lower-spec model that still has a manual gearbox makes this one a win across the board, and bidders seem to agree with bids up to $6,900 and no reserve. Find it here on eBay and located in Pompano Beach, Florida.
The location could mean this was a local retiree’s Sunday driver, or a grandma-owned car that didn’t see much use in recent years. Regardless, the driver must have been careful, as the panels appear to be laser straight. These earlier cars had chrome bumpers with short overhangs and went without the lower trim strips that adorned later cars on the lower parts of the door, quarter, and fender panels. I personally like the trim and the longer bumpers, but some folks like the earlier cars for the cleaner look. All lenses appear to be in good shape, and chrome looks quite decent.
The interior is another highlight, with a gorgeous tobacco interior that looks better than new. The seller calls the 2002 “all original” but also states that it benefits from new upholstery and carpets, which explains why it looks so fresh. The original steering wheel and shifter remain in place and the dash doesn’t appear to show any cracks. The back seat looks like it was also redone at the same time as the buckets, so there’s no major color discrepancy between the seating surfaces. I suppose the seller’s wording could mean it has been restored to original condition in places, but it does raise questions about the originality of the exterior.
No word on any mechanical updates, but the engine bay at least appears intact with no major missing components. The 2002 may not be the hot rod Tii, but there’s something to be said for enjoying a survivor like this that captures the driving experience most first-time BMW buyers had who opted for the bread-and-butter offering rather than the performance model. The seller claims this 2002 has no rust and has never been in an accident, and that it also benefits from new rubber seals. While the originality claims leave some haziness, this still looks like a relatively turnkey 2002 “roundie.”
It’s a fact that the round tail light 2002s are more highly regarded than the square tail light models, which are regularly maligned. I could never figure this out, but it’s probably the “squaries” “big” bumpers that has everyone’s panties in a bunch.
Oddly, this roundie’s front grilles have been blacked-out, which wasn’t feature of the roundies, but rather square tail light models of ’74-’76. Make up your mind, people.
Not a Tii but looks Sweet always liked the round taillights BMW went to TII cause regular motors were gutless girlfriend has silver Tii You could eat off of!!!!!!
Auction ended at $11,700 and some change !
Another car from my past that I shoulda kept