Most casual fans of BMWs recognize a few icons of the marque. There’s the adorable 2002 - opens in new window or tab. and the legendary E9-chassis coupes. And for younger enthusiasts, the first-generation E30-chassis M3 is a fave. However, true connoisseurs of the blue-and-white roundel will have their gaze aimed at a 1972 BMW 2500 like the one recently for sale on eBay.
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The New Six series, also known by its chassis code as the E3, was arguably the template for all modern examples of the marque. The 7-series predecessor marked a return to engines larger than four cylinders. In the case of the 2500s, it's a series of inline-sixes with varying displacements. The setup re-established the brand as a luxury brand worthy of a Mercedes rival. And its four-headlight design set the design template for nearly all BMWs since.
The Standard For Teutonic Sports Sedans
The 2500’s 2.5-liter engine has the smallest displacement of all the New Six cars. Its 148 horsepower is the least powerful of the line. But it also had the least number of luxury amenities. That means the 2500 is relatively lightweight—allowing the driver to focus on wonderfully analog driving dynamics over raw acceleration and speed.
Even the most potent E3, equipped with a 197-horsepower 3.0-liter, would be glacially slow compared to a modern BMW. So why fret over a dozen ponies here or there?
Perhaps indicative of its abilities, a modder fitted the car with a rally computer on the center console. Indeed, the seller says it was undoubtedly used as a rally machine in a former life. We assume it was the on-pavement time-speed-distance variety rather than gravel-spitting WRC.
Photographed for Classic & Sports Car magazine during the car's rally days.
Subtle Luxury
This elegant and refined example shows what BMW can do when focusing on the essence of a sports sedan and ignoring fashion trends. The Tundra Green Metallic paint over tan leather is a subtle and timeless color combination.
This example received a few accolades for its good looks. It won an award at the Internationale 2013 Rallye Classic in Germany and has graced the cover of the UK’s Classic & Sports Car magazine. That explains the right-hand drive. The car was likely first delivered in England.
The owners replaced several consumables with fresh parts, including spark plugs and wires, distributor vacuum advance, radiator fluid, motor oil, and brake pads. They also reassure that the front bumper and its brackets were refurbished but that they were not installed on the car because the owner preferred the bumper-less look.
This 1972 BMW 2500 is a fine example of the breed—owned by someone that paid attention to the details. It may not be as fast or showy as BMWs of today, but that’s precisely why we love it.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.