BMW 2002 turbo — The Original Turbocharged 02
Explore BMW 2002 turbo specifications, its 1973–1975 production run, turbocharged M10 engine and period design, with credited factory images.
The BMW 2002 turbo put turbocharged performance into the compact, upright 02-series body. Launched in 1973, it arrived at a moment when the oil crisis made its ambition conspicuous. Its story is therefore about more than an engine upgrade: it is a finite production model that captures a particular technological and cultural moment.
Record: BMW-007 · Limited-production performance model · Germany · 1973.
BMW 2002 turbo specifications and rarity
| Item | Documented reference and scope |
|---|---|
| Production | October 1973–June 1975 |
| Engine | 1,990 cc M10 inline-four with exhaust turbocharging |
| Factory power | 125 kW; BMW’s article labels the equivalent 170 hp |
| Torque | 240 Nm |
| Gearbox | Four-speed manual; five-speed optional |
| Performance reference | 0–100 km/h: 7.0 seconds; maximum speed: 211 km/h |
| Curb weight reference | 1,080 kg |
| Production total | 1,672 built and sold, according to BMW M |
Why the BMW 2002 turbo remains distinctive
The factory account records 1,672 examples built and sold by the end of production in June 1975. That figure covers the production model, not a modern reproduction, a turbo-converted 2002 or a separate cosmetic edition. The limited run gives the model a clear rarity basis without requiring an unsupported claim about how many survive today.
M10 engine, KKK turbocharger and the power delivery
BMW M describes the 1,990 cc M10 four-cylinder with a Kühnle, Kopp and Kausch exhaust turbocharger. Its figures are 125 kW, 240 Nm, seven seconds to 100 km/h and a maximum of 211 km/h. The factory article uses 170 hp for the power equivalent; this profile keeps the kW figure as the unambiguous reference.
The turbo’s power delivery is part of its period character. Boost behavior makes engine speed and throttle response relevant to how the car is understood. A later turbocharged car can have a similar badge but very different response and control systems. The 2002 turbo should be judged within its own engineering era rather than treated as an early example of present-day calibration.
Body details that identify the production turbo
Wheel-arch extensions, a front aerodynamic treatment and a rear spoiler give the compact saloon a more assertive silhouette. The factory article describes white or silver bodywork and the familiar Motorsport color striping. These are useful visual clues, but a styling kit alone is not evidence of production identity.
The much-discussed reversed front lettering deserves particular care. BMW says it was not fitted as standard. A profile should therefore avoid making that graphic a universal authenticity test. The proper question is whether the car’s documentation, mechanical specification and period configuration agree, rather than whether one dramatic decal is present.
Inside the 2002 turbo
The cockpit is still recognizably an 02-series environment, but the red instrument surround and additional clock and boost display distinguish the turbo specification in BMW’s account. Sports seats and a leather steering wheel supported the performance role. Manual transmission remained central, with four gears and an optional five-speed arrangement.
These details help make a photo gallery informative. Exterior views explain the stance and body treatment; an engine image connects the turbo name to physical hardware. A meaningful gallery does not need ten near-identical front views. A smaller selection with precise captions can explain the model’s identity more effectively.
Production scope and the collector record
The 1,672 total is a model-production count. It should not be copied into a claim about a particular color, gearbox option or country allocation unless separate evidence supports that narrower group. Equally, the final production date is not proof that every car was first registered in the same year.
For historical research, begin with the model’s production period, then separate build identity from later modifications. The profile preserves the factory technical references and finite run while avoiding a survival estimate or an invented chassis number. Its connection to the BMW Turbo concept offers a useful comparison: one programme tested possibilities, while the 2002 turbo brought a turbocharged four-cylinder into customer production.
BMW 2002 turbo frequently asked questions
How many BMW 2002 turbos were made?
BMW M states that 1,672 were built and sold before production ended in June 1975.
When was the BMW 2002 turbo produced?
The factory history places the production period from October 1973 to June 1975.
What engine did it use?
A 1,990 cc M10 inline-four with KKK exhaust turbocharging; BMW gives 125 kW and 240 Nm.
Did every car have a five-speed gearbox?
No. BMW describes four manual gears with a five-speed option.
Was reversed front lettering standard?
BMW’s retrospective says the reversed lettering was not fitted as standard.
Is it the same vehicle as the BMW Turbo E25?
No. The 2002 turbo is a production 02-series model; the E25 was a separate running concept programme.
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Factory sources and photo credits
Technical references and historical claims are tied to the source scope shown above. The inventory’s Verified label establishes eligibility for this batch; unresolved counts remain labelled.
Images: © BMW AG / BMW Group PressClub. Supplied for press and editorial use under BMW PressClub terms.
Why this machine matters
For historical research, begin with the model’s production period, then separate build identity from later modifications. The profile preserves the factory technical references and finite run while avoiding a survival estimate or an invented chassis number. Its connection to the BMW Turbo concept offers a useful comparison: one programme tested possibilities, while the 2002 turbo brought a turbocharged four-cylinder into customer production.
Built in limited numbers
October 1973–June 1975; 1,672 built and sold, according to BMW M
Gallery
Specifications
Factory specifications may vary by model year, market and configuration.
Identity & production
- Official model
- BMW 2002 turbo — The Original Turbocharged 02
- Base model
- 02 Series
- Worldwide production
- 1672
Powertrain & performance
- Engine
- 1,990 cc M10 inline-four with exhaust turbocharging
- Transmission
- Four-speed manual; five-speed optional
