1972 BMW 2000 Touring

While the American perception of German hatchbacks is commonly associated with Volkswagens, Germany’s first performance-oriented hatchback came from BMW. The 2000 Touring, produced from 1971 to 1974 and never imported to the United States, represents an understated yet foundational chapter in BMW’s history. More than just a derivative of the legendary 02 Series, the Touring cleverly reinterpreted its classic style and utility. This was BMW’s early experiment in expanding the concept of a sports sedan, blending the dynamism of the 02 with a fastback profile and an expansive hatch.

Following the 1600 coupe, the Touring emerged in 1971 as the series’ only three-door hatchback. Models including the 1800, 2000, 2000tii, and 2002 followed. All 30,206 examples, built through 1974, were reserved exclusively for European customers, making the Touring one of BMW's most elusive models on American soil.

This 1972 Touring was manufactured on July 6, 1971. It has been fully restored by Ray Korman Motor Works of North Carolina, one of the most respected BMW specialists in the country. The process went far beyond surface-level work. The motor was completely rebuilt while the worn suspension, steering, brake, heating, and electrical systems were each repaired or replaced to ensure factory-fresh performance. Korman, who has been restoring and tuning BMWs since 1978, prepared and refinished the body in its original BMW Riviera Blue. Additionally, he confirmed the authenticity of both the exterior color and the interior materials through direct correspondence with BMW Classic in Munich. Any worn or damaged trim was re-plated or replaced, the interior was returned to new condition, and all components that did not require rebuilding were thoroughly tested and cleaned. Even the exterior rearview mirrors, previously Japanese-market pieces, were replaced with factory-correct BMW originals. The result is a concours-ready, museum-grade Touring that has been enhanced with respect to its original mechanics.

BMW’s revered M10 2.0L inline four-cylinder engine breathes through the Kugelfischer mechanical fuel-injection system. The combination produces a sharp throttle response that is also synonymous with the highest-performance 2000tii and 2002tii variants. Together with the Touring’s lighter body, it makes for a uniquely engaging vehicle to drive. The car’s windshield is larger and leans farther back than the base model. The body is roughly eight inches longer and a half inch lower than the sedan. Inside, it mirrors the standard 2000/2002 layout but added folding rear seats.

The Touring’s rarity has only added to its mystique. Only 15,969 2000 and 2002 cars were produced between April 1971 and April 1974. The model never completely caught on in the early 1970s, overshadowed by shifting market tastes and was only available in Europe. Today, the Touring stands as a compelling German performance hatchback decades ahead of its time, built with strong engineering and a will to experiment before the market was ready.

This car’s restoration remains faithful to its original state, ensuring each element meets or exceeds modern expectations without disturbing the car’s authenticity. The 1972 Touring is an

important evolutionary step in the BMW lineage and serves as a reminder that it quietly influenced the brand’s future. Long before hatchbacks were cool, BMW built one that was both practical and genuinely exciting.