BMW 2002 Turbo
The wild, flared-arch pioneer that brought turbocharging to the European masses.
- Power
- 170 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 6.9 s
- Top speed
- 131 mph
- Est. value
- $95k–$185k
About the BMW 2002 Turbo
Launched at the 1973 Frankfurt Motor Show, the 2002 Turbo was Europe's first turbocharged production car. Based on the 2002 tii, it utilised a KKK turbocharger to boost output to 170 hp, though the primitive technology resulted in legendary levels of turbo lag. Its aggressive appearance, featuring bolted-on fender flares and a deep front air dam, was controversial at launch, particularly the mirrored 'Turbo' script intended to warn drivers in the overtaking lane. Production was cut short by the 1973 oil crisis, making it one of the most sought-after BMW collector cars today.
BMW 2002 Turbo specs
The BMW 2002 Turbo produces 170 bhp (127 kW) and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and has a top speed of 131 mph (211 km/h).
| Make | BMW |
|---|---|
| Model | 2002 Turbo |
| Trim | 2.0 |
| Years | 1973–1975 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 1,672 built |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,990 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 170 bhp (127 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,400 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 6.9 s |
| Top speed | 131 mph (211 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,080 kg (2,381 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 157 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a BMW 2002 Turbo worth?
A typical BMW 2002 Turbo is estimated to be worth $95,000 – $185,000 (about £71,000 – £138,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
BMW 2002 Turbo rarity in CarSpot
The BMW 2002 Turbo is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 96 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
BMW 2002 Turbo fun facts
- The mirrored 'Turbo' script on the front spoiler caused such a public outcry in Germany that BMW was forced to remove it from later production cars.
- It was the first BMW to wear the now-iconic tri-colour M stripes, despite predating the official launch of the M division's road cars.
- To handle the extra power, the Turbo featured a reinforced bodyshell, larger brakes, and a limited-slip differential as standard.
