1976 BMW 2002 review from North America
"If you can't afford an M3, buy and build a good 2002"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Any 2002 is an old car, and old cars have weak heaters. This is especially true on these cars. Replacing a heater core can cost over $500, and rebuild-able used ones are hard to find.
California required emissions equipment fails regularly and is extremely costly to replace. This fact has sent many of these cars to the junkyard.
You should expect the front sub frame to crack where the steering box attaches. This usually occurs before 200,000 miles.
Rust is a big problem with cars from areas where salt is used on roadways. Look closely at rocker panels and inside fender wells.
Wind noise will never go away. Don't bother wasting money on new weatherstripping.
General comments?
If you are an enthusiast who likes spirited performance and enjoys a car as both transportation and hobby, the 2002 is the car for you.
Sports car handling, smooth running and potentially gobs of horsepower in a car for four adults.
Remember, this is a BMW. I could've built 700+ horsepower of Chevy motor for what I spent on making 110 horsepower for this car.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2002 |
| Engine and transmission | Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 197000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 315000 miles |
| Previous car | Peugeot 504 |
| Date of Entry | 23rd June, 2002 |

