E10 2002 Turbo
Production Versions:
2291: European-spec (LHD), 01/74-10/75
History
What makes the 2002 Turbo unique?
The 2002 Turbo is a forced-induction version of the 2002tii. It was developed by BMW Motorsport based on previous experience with turbocharging and supercharging in racing applications.
Is the 2002 Turbo considered an M car?
Though not officially labeled as an M car, the 2002 Turbo was developed by BMW Motorsport (later renamed BMW M). Like the 3.0CSL, it is therefore often considered a member of the M Series.
Production Data
Where was the 2002 Turbo produced?
Production of the 2002 Turbo occurred on the standard production line in Munich, Germany.
How many versions of the 2002 Turbo were produced?
All 2002 Turbos were built in left-hand drive and to European specification.
How many examples of the 2002 Turbos were built?
ECE (non-cat): 1,672 built from 01/74 thru 10/75*
*includes 12 pre-production examples produced 7/73 thru 12/73
What changed during the production of the 2002 Turbo?
Because the 2002 Turbo existed for a relatively short time, there were few changes during its production. Of note, however, is that the original stripes, with their reversed "obrut" script, were deleted not long after production began (see explanation under Cosmetics). Also, beginning with VIN 4291213, the side-mounted tailpipe was moved to the center in an effort to prevent rust around the rear valance panel.
Drivetrain
How does the 2002 Turbo’s engine differ from a 2002tii??
The 2002 Turbo’s engine was based on the M10 1990cc SOHC inline-4 with Kugelfischer fuel injection, as used in the 2002tii. However, a KKK turbocharger adapted from a light-duty truck application boosted power to 170 hp (DIN) @ 5,800 rpm and torque to 181 lb/ft @ 4000 rpm. The low-compression nature of turbocharged engines required special pistons, lowering the compression ratio to 6.9:1. The cylinder head was also redesigned, but the stock 2002 pistons were retained. The Kugelfischer fuel injection pump was similar to the 2002tii unit, but was modified internally.
What kind of gearboxes were offerred in the 2002 Turbo?
The standard 2002 Turbo transmission was a reinforced Getrag 232 four-speed manual with the following ratios: 3.76 (1), 2.09 (2), 1.32 (3), 1.00 (4).
Two versions of the close-ratio Getrag 235/8 five-speed manual gearbox were optional. The first included the following ratios: 2.72 (1), 1.84 (2), 1.38 (3), 1.13 (4), 1.00 (5). A second, beefier version used the following ratios: 2.91 (1), 1.97 (2), 1.48 (3), 1.21 (4), 1.00 (5).
A 3.36:1 final drive was standard with all gearboxes, though a shorter 3.45:1 could be ordered as an option. Both came mated to limited slip differentials (40% locking). There were also a number of BMW Motorsport differntials available (3.64, 3.91, 4.10, etc.), but these were intended for competition use only.
Chassis
How is the 2002 Turbo’s chassis different from a 2002tii?
The Turbo’s chassis was based upon that of the already competent 2002tii, with MacPherson struts in the front and semi-trailing arms in the back. The normal 2002 front springs were retained, as was the 16mm rear antiroll bar. However, the Turbo used a larger 20mm front antiroll bar (up from 15mm) and unique rear springs with three different spring pads to adjust the ride height. In addition, the Turbo was fitted with Bilstein shocks and had reinforced trailing arms, rear wheel bearings, hubs and stub axles.
What kind of brakes was the 2002 Turbo equipped with?
The 2002 Turbo used upgraded 10.08-inch front disc brakes and the stock 2002tii rear drums.
What were the factory wheels and tires for the 2002 Turbo?
All 2002 Turbos were fitted with 185/70VR13 tires. Two types of wheels were available: 5.5x13-inch steel wheels with dark gray centers were standard, with a disc-type 6x13-inch alloy wheel as an option.
Cosmetics
What exterior features are unique to the 2002 Turbo?
The 2002 Turbo is easily distinguished from any other 2002 by its body-color front spoiler, black rubber rear spoiler, and riveted fender flares. Some cars were further fitted with Motorsport stripes on the front spoiler and sides. However, underneath the surface there are more subtle changes: The front frame rails are heavier, the floor areas around the rear suspension mounting points are thicker, the quarter panels are cut out for the flares, the outer rear wheel housings are larger, the trunk floor is different to accommodate a larger spare tire and special 70-liter fuel tank, and the nose panel is unique.
Why were there two kinds of Motorsport stripes?
The original style of Motorsport stripes featured the word “turbo” in reverse on the front spoiler. This was designed so that drivers could see the word clearly in their rear-view mirror as the Turbo was quickly approaching. However, the German government considered this to be too outlandish and BMW was quickly pressured into changing to a different style without any kind of turbo script on the front spoiler.
What interior features are unique to the 2002 Turbo?
The interior of the 2002 Turbo is equipped with a three-spoke sport steering wheel, sport seats in black leatherette, a red instrument surround within the main cluster and a VDO boost gauge with analog clock mounted in a central pod above the dash.
What was optional on a 2002 Turbo?
The standard 2002 Turbo was sparsely equipped, thus many options were available. These included a five-speed manual gearbox, 6x13-inch alloy wheels, rear window defroster, laminated glass, rear seat belts, passenger-side exterior mirror, velour floor mats, lockable glove box, lockable gas cap, manual sunroof, power sunroof, front fog lights, rear fog light, headlight washer/wipers, tinted glass, radio with cassette player and the exterior Motorsport stripes.
Special Versions
Were there any special versions of the 2002 Turbo?
There were no special versions of the 2002 Turbo.
Color and Upholstery Selections
Exterior Colors:
Chanomix (085) , Polaris metallic (080)
Interior Colors:
Black leatherette