The BMW 02 Series represents one of the most important model families in the entire history of BMW, because it was through this range that the brand’s image as a maker of sporty and driver-focused compact sedans became firmly established. Introduced in the second half of the 1960s, the 02 Series grew out of the technical and stylistic foundations of the Neue Klasse, but quickly became much more than simply a smaller derivative. These cars were lighter, more compact and more direct in character, and it was through them that BMW’s sporting driving feel reached a much wider audience.
The models of the 02 Series show very clearly how BMW combined technical ambition, a clear design language and a more sporting driving experience into one cohesive whole. This model family included both more restrained everyday cars and very important sporting versions, of which the 2002 became the best known. It was the 02 Series that laid the foundation for what would later become associated with the classic BMW sporty compact sedan – light bodywork, precise handling, good balance and a strongly driver-focused character. At the same time, this range also brought several racing and special versions into the BMW story, further increasing the importance of the 02 Series in the marque’s history.
This page presents different aspects of the BMW 02 Series, ranging from more standard road-going models to rare racing and special versions. Taken together, these models represent the era in which BMW’s sporting identity became much clearer and stronger, and whose influence can still be felt in the brand’s model history today.
Click on the model image or name to open the gallery and description.