2002 vin question...

[xlittlejohnx]

So, I bought another 2002 and thought that I purchased a '73, as titled. I looked up the vin, 2533497, and it looks like I have a '72 Automatic. Looking at the floor, it appears to have once been an automatic and I think there was once an "automatic" emblem on the back from the two holes without a badge to cover them. Anyone know where I can research this or possibly have any info? Thanks!

John

[Napes]

Look here:

http://www.bmw2002faq.com/content/view/13/32/

Bob Napier

[quinnfiske]

Remember that model year and production date are not the same thing. A 1973 model could have been built during 1972. There is a sticker in the engine compartment that states that the car conforms to DOT and EPA regulations for model year 1973 or whatever. For US cars anyway. Your title should have the correct model year.

I might be wrong, but I think that 1973 cars had amber turn signals in the rear lights while earlier cars had red.

[JLENHAM]

Titles can be wrong as well. My 73 2002 is titled as a 72, don't know why, was that way from the PO, and did not seem worth the effort to correct, and it made me exempt a year early from inspections.

My VIN is 2592004, the build sticker on the drivers door (does yours have this still?) is 6/73.

The red signal lights are a bit earlier, like 1968-1970, someone else will be able to be more specific.

[HBChris]

Your car is one of the last 100 out of 1471 automatics built in `72, most likely in Dec of `72. It was sold in the US in early `73 and is considered a `73.

[Mike Self]

'73 production began with 2533173 in early September '72. It should have the heavy front bumper brackets and the rear bumper spaced about two inches away from the body. Those bumper brackets are unique to the '73 model year US model cars.

A PO has obviously converted it to stick, not an uncommon conversion.

cheers

mike

[xlittlejohnx]

Thanks for all the info guys. I came to the same conclusion. So glad to finally have another 2002. Now I gotta go figure out how to get all the lights working. Nice wiring from the PO...