Introduced in 1968, the 2002 was arguably the first model to lend credence to BMW's present day 'ultimate driving machine' reputation.

Supposedly prompted by Machiavellian New York car importer Max Hoffman's demands for a sportier version of the 1502 / 1602 range, the 2002 shared its siblings steel monocoque, anti-roll bar tempered all round independent suspension (Macpherson strut front, semi-trailing arm rear) and disc / drum brakes.

Powered by a 1990cc, SOHC four-cylinder engine mated to a four-speed manual gearbox, the lightweight saloon (less than a 1,000kg) was surprisingly fast.

With 100bhp and 123lbft of torque on tap, it was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 10.2 seconds and a top speed of 110mph.

Launched in 1971, the Baur-designed 2002 Cabriolet featured a sturdy rollover hoop separating the detachable targa panel at the front from the folding hood to the rear.

Suitably strengthened, the Cabriolet suffered only a slight weight penalty and no discernible loss of performanc...