How Fast?

[JFT]

Looking at '02s. Drove one yesterday that I think won't make my short list, but this question develops. Has anyone out there checked with a GPS to see how fast a stock '02, with stock tires and gearing, is traveling at 4000 rpm? This one I drove indicated 80 mph, and that was obviously very optimistic indeed, as it seemed like we were standing still, and traffic was passing like we were chained to a Caterpillar tractor. Thanks in advance.

[wickstad]

Just off the top of my head I think that is about right for my stock '74.

[FunElan]

I've checked mine against Honda's digital speedo's in the car next to me. Mine said 80 and his said 73. I think all speedometers vary on calibration and the only way to actually find out what it is reading is to test it with a gps.

btw I have a 5 speed with a 3.91 lsd

[TJF]

My speedo reads some where around 75-80 at 4000 RPM...not sure exactly. Haven't checked with a GPS and don't plan on it. I didn't buy a 30+ year old car to see how fast it goes or how accurate the instrumentation is.

[MikeWooldridge]

close...4 speed '71

[BMWonly]

I figured it out a while ago, for a 4 speed (direct 4th) and 3.44 rear end, 185/70 13 tires (was not a BMW but the rules are the same). That gave me exactly 80mph @ 4000 rpm. Since the 3.64 is about 5.5% shorter, you will travel about 75-76 @ 4000 rpm.

Dieter

[Julio]

I've checked mine against Honda's digital speedo's in the car next to me. Mine said 80 and his said 73. I think all speedometers vary on calibration and the only way to actually find out what it is reading is to test it with a gps.

btw I have a 5 speed with a 3.91 lsd

This is spot on with what I have stock motor 5 psd w/lsd 3.91, 185/70/13 used gps read something like 84-85 mph at 4000 rpm

jb

for what its worth I have so much more fun in the 2002 over other newer cars I just sold my (06' 325 Ci 5spd sport and prem) and do not regret it.

[jprocket]

Use the excel spreadsheet. Choose your tire size and gearing then find your speed:

http://www.bmw2002faq.com/content/view/56/32/

[BMWonly]

That's a good link, thanks.

I was spot on, so 76 mph @ 4000 with stock wheels 185/70 13 and 3.64 fourth gear.