The BMW 1600-2 was part of the BMW Neue Klasse (""New Class"")
series, which played a significant role in revitalizing the BMW
brand in the 1960s. The 1600-2
was known for its sporty handling, balanced performance, and
stylish design. It was equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four engine
that produced around
85 horsepower, depending on the specific model and market. This
engine featured BMW's signature twin carburetors and was known for
its smoothness
and efficiency.
The 1600-2 came with a four-speed manual transmission, offering a
sporty driving experience. Over the years, BMW introduced different
variants, including
a four-speed automatic transmission option. The BMW 1600-2 had a
distinctive and elegant design for its time. It featured a clean,
classic sedan profile
with a short rear deck and a bold front grille. The design elements
were influenced by the famous BMW 2002, which was introduced later
and shared many
components with the 1600-2.
The 1600-2 was renowned for its balanced performance and precise
handling. It had a lightweight body and a well-tuned suspension,
which contributed to
its agile and responsive nature. The car was relatively quick for
its era and provided an engaging driving experience. The BMW 1600-2
laid the foundation for
BMW's reputation as a manufacturer of sporty, performance-oriented
sedans. It served as a predecessor to the iconic BMW 2002, which
became a cult classic
and solidified BMW's position in the automotive market.