COLOR: CHAMONIX
OWNERS: RAY KING
OWNED SINCE: 1982
LOCATION: JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA
The journey of this particular 1970 BMW 2002 began in the skilled hands of ALPINA. For the next two months, this wasn't just any 2002; it was a canvas upon which ALPINA painted its magic. It received the full treatment, a transformation that elevated it far beyond its factory form. The heart of the beast became an A3 Export two-liter engine, fed by the raw power of Weber 45DCOE carburetors. A close-ratio five-speed transmission was added, along with quick-ratio steering, a heavy-duty suspension, and ventilated front disc rotors. To keep it all planted, adjustable sway bars and reinforced trailing arms were installed, and it rode on distinctive 5.5 x 13 inch ALPINA steel wheels. The A3 Export engine, producing a potent 160 DIN horsepower, was the most powerful street-legal engine ALPINA offered at the time. It's worth noting that by 1971, the ALPINA 2002 models were gaining even more recognition for their performance and handling prowess in European touring car championships, further solidifying their legendary status.
The interior wasn't overlooked. The 1971 ALPINA 2002 models often featured subtle but distinctive exterior enhancements, such as unique front spoilers and sometimes even lightweight alloy wheels, further differentiating them from their standard BMW counterparts. ALPINA added its own tachometer and extra gauges, rallye seats that hinted at the car's sporting intentions, and a beautiful wooden ALPINA steering wheel, crafted by MOMO. With its transformation complete, the ALPINA 2002 embarked on its voyage to the United States in September 1970, arriving at the port of Miami, Florida. Ray King believes this ALPINA-modified 2002 may have been the only one shipped directly to the United States for street use in 1970. While other ALPINA cars found their way to America, they often came via Canada.