Decked in vintage accents and modern performance mods, this ride defies its age.
The BMW 2002 tii, a predecessor of the famed 3-series and a darling of the 1960s automotive scene, shows off its classic charm in the modern era with a bold new restoration. The car is the result of a collaboration between MANHART Performance and the famed tuning house under the BMW umbrella, ALPINA, a name that connotes exquisite performance and a rich history of tuned BMWs. If you’re an aficionado of classic cars with a performance edge, this one’s for you.
ALPINA’s expertise is evident right under the hood where the two-litre M10 in-line four-cylinder engine lies. If you’re thinking this is just another restoration, you’d be mistaken. The engine comes in the ALPINA A4 variant, featuring a single throttle system and ALPINA manifold. But the pièce de résistance is the supplementary K&N airbox. Simply put, it takes the horsepower from a respectable 130 to a staggering 200 hp, with torque figures climbing from 131 to 159 lb/ft.
Of course, more power necessitates better control. That’s why the classic 2002 tii now features a brake system from the 323i model, lifted from its successor, the E21 series. Add to this the Raab coilover suspension by KW and you get modern, sporty handling that one wouldn’t expect in a car from this era. Plus, for those who appreciate fine details, a Wiechers strut brace has been installed to improve body stiffness. As for keeping rubber on the road, this restored icon wears 215/40R16 and 225/40R16 tires, mounted on newly installed original ALPINA multi-spoke rims.
True to ALPINA’s signature style, the 2002 tii features wheel arch extensions that insiders lovingly refer to as “pig cheeks.” These extensions give the classic a much stockier, assertive look that commands attention. The visual drama is further intensified by the characteristic ALPINA decal set in light green and silver, perfectly complementing the body, which is painted in BMW’s Agave Green.
The interior isn’t left behind either. The seats don a combination of blue and bright green stripes, offering a visual treat to the occupants. These are not just any seats; they are sports seats by Scheel, fully restored by the Classic Cars team. To round off the nostalgia-meets-modern vibe, a Clubsport roll bar adds that final touch of sportiness. The ALPINA Classic 2002 tii is not merely a trip down memory lane; it’s a seamless blend of the old and new, both visually and mechanically. This is the car for those who appreciate classic aesthetics but crave contemporary performance. It’s the epitome of what happens when expert craftsmanship meets passionate engineering.
Image Source: MANHART Performance
