In BMW circles, the 2002 Turbo is known as “the Holy Grail.” A powerful and visually arresting automobile, it was akin to a holiday firework that burst upon the automotive world and then vanished, a victim of the 1974 fuel crisis that all but killed demand for performance cars.

The 2002 itself, on which the Turbo was based, is widely regarded as the first true sports sedan; a light and modern two-door with seating for four. It was well-built, comfortable, and combined more-than-adequate power and with fully independent suspension and front disc brakes, giving excellent road manners. The early single-carb “Zero-two” of 1968 was succeeded by the twin-carbureted 2002 TI and then the even stronger fuel-injected TII. The new Turbo was unveiled at the 1973 Frankfurt Auto Show and hit rest-of-world markets in 1974. It was not offered in the US.

The Turbo boasted a 1,998-cubic-centimeter SOHC inline-four-cylinder engine with a single KKK turbocharger and Kugelfischer fuel injection. This engine produced 170 brake horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque, enough to deliver 60 mph in under seven seconds, with a maximum of 130 mph. The Turbo stood out with a set of fender extensions, a large front air dam (there was no front bumper) and a rear deck spoiler, plus a dazzling graphics package that adorned the front spoiler and both flanks of the body. The “2002 Turbo” lettering on the air dam was applied in reverse, making it easier for drivers who glanced in their rear-view mirrors to identify what was closing in on them.

Benefitting from a three-year restoration, this stunning 1974 BMW 2002 Turbo has been refinished in its original shade of Chamonix with color-matched fender extensions. The exterior is accented nicely by Turbo graphics, a chrome beltline, and chrome rear bumper. The Turbo rides on a set of Alpina wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes R888 tires. The front air dam, rear spoiler, and center exhaust add to the car’s aggressive look. The interior is trimmed in a black leatherette and features Turbo-specific sport seats, a sunroof, VDO instrumentation and boost gauge, as well as a MotoMeter clock. This 2002 Turbo is one of 1,672 produced; it is offered with a BMW Classic Certificate and restoration invoices.