1967 BMW 1600-02
Elegant Michelotti styling and the distinctive Hofmeister kink at the C-pillar marked this pioneering compact that helped establish BMW’s reputation for sporty engineering. The 1600-2 made its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 1966 and was sold through 1975, with the “-2” designation indicating its two-door configuration.
Based on a shortened version of BMW’s New Class sedans, the design featured clean lines and a tall greenhouse that provided excellent visibility.
The 1.6 L M10 inline-four produced 85 hp at 5,700 rpm and 96 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm. Weighing approximately 2,116 pounds (960 kg), the lightweight construction delivered nimble handling and respectable performance for its era. In 1968, Road & Track praised the $2,676 1600 as “a great automobile for the price.”
The 1600-2 laid the groundwork for BMW’s famous 2002 and served as the foundation for the entire 02 Series. These cars played a critical role in BMW’s survival during the 1960s, establishing the company’s identity as a manufacturer of driver-focused compact vehicles that would influence generations of BMWs to come.
Source
