1975 BMW 1602 LUX - 27,011 MILES FROM NEW

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1975 BMW 1602 LUX - 27,011 MILES FROM NEW

This BMW 1602 Lux is a remarkable and award-winning example of the breed, presented in outstanding original and unrestored condition. Under the bonnet is a 1.6-litre inline-four M10 engine producing around 84hp, driving the rear wheels via a manual transmission. The odometer shows just 27,011 miles from new, which is fully supported by the detailed history.

An original right-hand drive UK market car, this 1602 was first registered in June 1975. In addition to the optional black paint colour, this 1602 was specified with the desirable ‘Lux’ package at extra cost, which incorporated different interior trim and carpets, a foam covered steering wheel, wood trim, a dipping rear-view mirror, intermittent windscreen wipers, lockable petrol tank cap, carpeted rear parcel shelf, and a heated rear window. This car was also fitted with an optional nearside external mirror. There are just two previous registered keepers on the log book, and it has been with the current owner for more than 18 years, covering some 5,000 miles in that time.

This particular car is a true ‘time warp’ example, and its superlative condition has meant it has featured in a number of magazines and buying guides, and most notably was the 1602 ‘reference car’ in James Taylor’s excellent 2013 book: ‘The Restorer's Reference - BMW 2002 - 1968-1976’.

Its bodywork is in superb condition, with no accident damage, dents or dings, and no evidence of any corrosion. The black paint presents beautifully, with a smooth and glossy finish around the car. While it has most certainly been the recipient of some careful polishing, it is believed to be the factory coat. All of the brightwork is in great shape, and the light lenses are free of chips and cracks. The window glass is likewise undamaged, and the 1970s Prestons BMW dealer sticker is still present in the rear screen. Even the raised-letter number plates are believed to be original. It rides on the 13-inch Mahle ‘bottle top’ alloy wheels, which are in excellent and unrestored order.

Inside, the front and rear seats are upholstered in the factory ‘Lux’ combination of beige vinyl, cord centre panels and velour bolster trims. The materials are in wonderful condition, with the only note being a minor nick on the driver’s seat bolster, and small blemishes on the driver’s door handle. Its carpets are in superb order throughout, and are protected by the original optional coconut floor mats in the front and rear. Wood inlays are used for the instrument surround, door panel trims, and the gear knob. The original four-spoke steering wheel is also present, along with the rare three-point rear seat belts. Above the occupants, the headlining is in great shape.

Mechanically, this 1602 Lux is in very good order, with its most recent scheduled maintenance having been carried out at Biggerstaff’s Garage in Rickmansworth in 2018. It has also been regularly maintained throughout the seller’s ownership by BMW specialists Jaymic and Cooks Ferry Engineering, as well as other local workshops.

The most recent MOT test was on 12 July 2017 at 27,006 miles, when it achieved a first-time pass with no advisories whatsoever. It is eligible for exemption from annual testing on the basis of age. While not driven on longer journeys, this car has benefitted from regular use throughout its life, covering some 4,500 miles in the last 14 years. The online MOT history shows that, beyond some items needing attention 2009, it has not had any other advisories in this period - which is testament to its incredible condition.

Accompanying this BMW is the original blue document wallet, containing the owner’s handbook, stamped guarantee and maintenance record, and the service directory. There is also a raft of receipts and invoices, as well as a copy of ‘Classics’ magazine from September 2003, which features this car as a stunning example of the model. A copy of James Taylor’s restoration book, which showcases this 1602 as a prime ‘reference car’, is also included. Under the boot floor is the original full-size spare wheel and tyre, jack, and wheel brace. Finally, the car also comes with numerous ‘Best in Class’ concours trophies from club meets.

This BMW 1602 Lux is a stunning 1970s classic, presented in original and truly astonishing unrestored condition. The phrase ‘buy the best example you can afford’ is common advice in the collector car world, and it simply cannot get much better than this. Almost certainly an unrepeatable opportunity to acquire a true ‘time warp’ example in this specification, with only three owners from new, this is surely an irresistible proposition for any discerning BMW collector.

Finally, the owner has a quantity of extremely rare ‘new old stock’ parts, original BMW sales collateral, and sought-after genuine BMW period accessories – both generic and 02 Series specific – which are all available to buy under separate agreement.

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.

Summary of MOT history: