BMWotD — The M2 That Never Was
Here’s a sweet little one-of-a-kind BMW that BMW never built (but should have); the ///M2.
Yes, the M2 isn’t an official model produced by BMW; just the creative conglomeration of a 1972 BMW 2002tii with an e30 M3 drivetrain transplant. The engine in this car is the 4-cylinder DOHC S14; the original 4-speed transmission was likewise replaced by the M3′s 5-speed. In stock form, the S14 makes just under 200 hp, and the 2002tii in stock form weighs all of 2200lbs; this one uses an aftermarket chip and some other modifications which would combine to bump the output into the 220hp range or maybe higher. It also has a 3:91 limited-slip rear differential, which works with the hot little engine to make this car wicked fast. Just a great big tiny little ball of fun!
The 2002 ’roundie’ has long been one of my favorite cars, but always been known for being prone to rust, so there are very few solid examples left these days. According to the seller, this one is rust-free and has had a bare-metal repaint done by the previous owner. I really like the color, especially when it is so similar to my own Rustoleum Burgundy e28! One of these days I’m going to make a new label to go on top of the fender in the engine bay of the 528, and it may be more fitting to put Malaga Red on it than something quirky like Burgundrot Rustoleum.
One interesting thing with this car is it’s part of a private members’ club — Classic Car Club Manhattan — where members are allowed to drive any car in the stable. According to the seller’s eBay description, “Our members care for the cars as if they were their own, we are not a rental company and only our limited group of members drive our cars. We also employ a full-time staff of mechanics to check up on the cars and ensure that they remain in top mechanical condition.” That is such a cool concept; if only Sioux Falls had something like that going. Then again, I don’t know if I would qualify for membership;
Typical annual memberships work on a point system and range from $8,000-$14,000 per year and offer between 30 and 80 days driving depending on which cars you drive and when.
A bit on the steep side, but the cost is probably comparable to a country club with a golf course. For a city-dwelling car nut, it might make sense; access to that many cars without the hassles of ownership. Just write a check.
The eBay auction starting bid price for this car is just under $23,000; probably a bit way more than the car is really worth. The seller hasn’t changed the asking price since the car first showed up as an exclusive on Bring A Trailer last month. Browsing through the comments it’s pretty clear that others have the same opinion of the car; great machine, but the seller is dreaming if they really think someone is going to pay that kind of money for it, especially when a few issues can be noted in the photo gallery. Reminds me of something one of my college profs said; nothing is worth more than someone is willing to pay for it. Very true here.
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