BMW 1602

BMW launched its ‘Neue Klasse’ range of compact saloons and coupes in 1962 and it is no exaggeration to say that they were the cars that saved the company. 

Up to that point BMW had been best known for making beautifully engineered but incredibly complex and expensive machines that no-one outside Germany could either afford or understand. With its crisp, modernist styling, brilliant chassis dynamics and superb engineering, the Neue Klasse changed all that at a stroke and established BMW as a truly international brand.

Launched in 1966, the 1602 was especially well received, particularly in America where it was soon being lauded as the best small car in the world. Powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine that produced 96bhp, it could sprint to 60mph in around 10 seconds with a 100mph top speed. With exemplary handling and reliability, it was the car that every young motoring enthusiast aspired to.

Dating from the last year of production, this particular 1602 was first registered in July 1975 and has been in the current ownership since 1990. It was in regular use until 1993 when the arrival of young children caused the car to be put into storage where it has remained to this day.

Now in need of restoration, this iconic little car should prove a worthwhile project for someone and is being offered here entirely without reserve.