In 1966, the sale of 1600’s in the United States began to escalate. The press had done much to stimulate desire for this small and responsive vehicle. The problem was that the sportier version, the 1600ti, was unable to pass the US Federal exhaust emissions regulations and thus, unable to be sold in that market. This was due to its twin-carburetor engine. The solution was to sell the 2-liter version which was able to pass the emissions regulations. So, in 1966, the 2002 was introduced.
During the life span of the 2002, which ranged from 1968 through 1976, there were three generations. The first generation was from 1968 through 1971. The second generation was built from 1971 through 1973. The third generation was built from 1973 through 1976.
From 1968 through 1976, BMW produced around 80,000 vehicle for the US market.
The vehicle produced from 1968 through 1973 can be identified by their round tail lights. Vehicle built after that and through 1973 had larger bumpers and sat atop a wider trac.
Source: http://www.conceptcarz.com/vehicle/z9392/BMW-2002.aspx
