BMW delved into new territory just a couple of years ago when it launched its new compact two-door and front-drive minivans. But neither of those represent the first time the company used the number 2 on a new line of small cars. And now the original is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
The model line known as the 02 Series arrived in 1966 as a smaller, sportier, and less expensive version of the Neue Klasse sedan that put BMW back on the map. The precursor to the 3 Series, the 02 line gave rise to an array of models including the 1502, 1802, and most notably the 2002.
The latter became one of BMW’s earliest performance models, slotting an enlarged 2.0-liter engine into the company’s smallest model and laying the groundwork for so many M models to follow.
In short, it was a pivotal car for the company that had struggled to regain traction in the wake of the Second World War. So to celebrate a half-century since its creation, the online enthusiast site 60 Pit Stop commissioned Deutsche Post to produce this limited-edition stamp.
The stamp features artwork by French artist BOD showing the little classic Bimmer on its way to the Nürburgring, rounding a corner on two wheels. The face value is 70 cents (enough to send a standard letter), but they’re being sold as part of a set of two in a collectors’ card for 10 euros (including postage of course).
Only 2002 examples will be made, so if you’re into philately and classic cars, you’d better get yours now. If you’re not into collecting stamps but like the design, www.69pitstop.com also has the same available on a t-shirt as well.
PHOTOS
