Work Wheels adds a dash of JDM to the legendary 1974 BMW 2002tii
For many middle-aged car fans, the BMW 2002 is a very special car. For many of us, it was a first car that we learned with, customized and in many cases, destroyed.
I was one of those people. To this day, the BMW 2002 holds a special place in my heart. Twenty or so years ago, one was able to buy a decent running BMW 2002 for $500 to $1,500. A 1974 through 1976 BMW 2002 in very good condition could be had for between $3,000 to $5,000.
Fast forward to 2016 and that same 2002 the same starter 2002 that was selling for $500 is now going for right around $5,000 to $8,000. This is of course because of inflation and because of the fact that there are fewer of them on the road.
In terms of a BMW 2002 as a first car today, there is the scarcity factor and the availability of parts. Lastly, there are so many, much better, safer alternatives out there that the 2002 as a first car for future car fans just doesn’t seem like a prudent choice.
With that said, I have long wondered what a BMW 2002 following modern day custom car trends and influences would look like. Fortunately, I have an answer in the form of the video below.
Starting with a 1974 BMW 2002tii, Work Wheels of Japan come up with an interesting mix of ‘old-school’ and ‘new-school’ style with a dash of JDM or ‘Japanese domestic market’ thrown into the mix.
‘Old school’ influences are in the form of a twin-carbureted M10 engine, non-adjustable leather racing seats, chrome bumpers, and front air dam. The melodic rumbling of the M10 engine is just like how I remember it to be when I first feel in love in with the sound over 20 years ago.
‘New school’ influences are in the form of a very large muffler, very wide wheels with low profile tires that appear to be ‘stretched’ over the rim. There is also the very large rear wing that gives the icon shape a very interesting profile.
While the Turbo flares have been around since 1974 when they were added as standard equipment on the iconic 2002 Turbo, the fender flares on this example are noticeably bigger and wider.
While I can’t say that I really like the rear wing, it definitely adds a modern taste on a classic and timeline shape. It also illustrates in my mind why the BMW has the legendary status that it does.
