Pick of the Day: 1975 BMW 2002 Turbo

What’s the first production turbo automobile? Some people would say the 1962 Chevrolet Corvair Spyder, while Oldsmobile enthusiasts would point out the F-85-based Jetfire was the first. So, what was the first production turbocharged vehicle out of Europe? Our Pick of the Day is that very car, a 1975 BMW 2002 Turbo. It is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Costa Mesa, California. (Click the link to view the listing)

The Oldsmobile Jetfire was produced through 1963, while a turbocharged version of the Chevrolet Corvair was available through 1966. What was the next production turbo vehicle? Believe it or not, it was an early progenitor of the SUV, the 1965-67 International Harvester Scout, which was available with a turbocharged Comanche 154cid inline-four featuring 111 horsepower.

And the next was the BMW 2002. Initially introduced as the two-door 1600-2 in 1966, its engine would be bumped up to two liters and be christened the 2002 in 1968. It had a more sporting flavor than the 1600-2 and became the beacon of BMW’s image that would become to the known as the “Ultimate Driving Machine.”

The 2002 Turbo was introduced for the 1973 model year. The 2.0-liter four produced 168 net horsepower with fuel injection and was capable of achieving a 131-mph top end. Transmission choices were a Getrag four-speed or five-speed, with a 3.36 final-drive ratio out back. All 2002 Turbos were painted in either Chamonix White or Polaris Silver, both with BMW’s signature Motorsport blue and orange colors. Fiberglass wheel arches and front air dam, plus a rubber rear spoiler, added to the functionality and distinction. Through 1975, only 1,672 were built.

Painted Chamonix White, this 1975 BMW 2002 Turbo features all the body kit items and stripes plus TOYO Extensa A/S tires on 13-inch wheels. Inside, you’ll find s three-spoke steering wheel. According to the seller, Bavarian Rennsport performed a “comprehensive” service that included new ignition wires, spark plugs, Bosch red coil, turbo oil return hose, and more, all to the tune of $7,800.