The BMW 330e plug-in hybrid may be the subject of the limelight at today’s start to BMW Innovation Days 2016, however BMW certainly has a firm grasp on its heritage, with the display of a 1975 BMW 2002 as well as a BMW E30 M3 DTM replica.
In fact, electrification goes back as far as the BMW 1602, which was showcased in electric drive form as the BMW 1602 Elektro-Antrieb at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, itself preceding the now-legendary 2002 which was launched in 1975.
The 2002 is notable for two things: firstly as the forefather of the 3 Series which has been widely regarded through the years as the handling benchmark for the compact executive sedan segment, as well as for introducing the turbocharged powertrain to the mainstream.
Also attaining legendary status among BMW M enthusiasts is the E30 M3, which in Sport Evolution road-going trim produced 238 hp from its 2.5 litre inline-four, naturally aspirated engine. In racing form, the E30 M3 went on to win championship titles in numerous campaigns, including the World Touring Car Championship in 1987, the British Touring Car Championship in 1988 and 1991, and its homeground Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft in 1987 and 1989.
Along with the pair of classics, also on display at the Desa Parkcity showcase are the BMW i8, X6 M, 740Li, and an F10 5 Series retrofitted with M Performance accessories.
GALLERY: 1975 BMW 2002
GALLERY: 1992 BMW E30 M3 DTM replica
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Is the event open to public?
I bought my brand new BMW 728i in Malaysia (then CBU) from BMW Malaysia in 1990 for RM130k. It was the most expensive car at that time.
Can BMW Malaysia show how they have increased prices the past 26 years in this exhibition?
I look at Autocar UK magazine in 1990 and 2016, the 7 series have only increased a few thousand pounds. The same with all other cars.
Now, our 7 series is RM700k and that also CKD.
How BMW Malaysia?
1990, USD $1 = MYR 2.50 Today 2016, USD $1 = MYR 4.05
See how super small is the BMW 2002 tyres relative to the body? New Persona owners should be proud.
Yan’s car!
Woot BMW’s first turbo charged car the 2002 from the 70’s!