F20C-Swapped BMW 2002 Is a Stellar, Show-Quality Build
Flawless craftsmanship sets this Japanese-built BMW 2002 apart from the many F20C swaps out there already.
In recent years, F20C and F22C1 swaps have become more and more prevalent across the globe, and for good reason – why wouldn’t someone want to replace their boring, stock, underpowered engine with a legendary, high-revving powerplant that’s widely considered to be one of the best ever produced by anyone? Interestingly, one of the more common swaps of this type we come across involve vintage BMW 2002 models, but few are as nice as this one put together by the folks at Daddy Motorworks.
While modern BMWs are, for the most part, rather unsightly to look at, that isn’t the case with classics like the 2002, which is arguably one of the best-looking machines to ever emerge from the German automaker. However, what is had in style it lacked in terms of power, as the BMW 2002 was offered with outputs ranging from 100 horsepower up to 170 for turbo models, though those are quite rare.
Thus, it’s no surprise that F20C swapped BMW 2002 builds have become so common, as the inline-four fits nicely in the engine bay of this classic compact coupe. As for Daddy Motorworks, it typically wrenches on Japanese models only, but made an exception for the owner of this 2002 – even though it has ditched its German heart for one from that particular country.
Installing the S2000-based powerplant in this particular car was a snap thanks to a custom wiring harness, radiator, and Link ECU, along with an entire front subframe from a Toyota AE86 that still features the original BMW lower control arms and tie rods, along with its OEM rear suspension and differential. However, needless to say, it’s a heck of a lot more fun to drive now than when it was stock, and we’d wager it sounds a lot better, too.
Coupled with a perfectly straight body, flawless dark red paint, and some gold wheels, this BMW 2002 certainly looks as good as it presumably runs, too. Those that are in the area next month will be able to check this fine build up close and in person too, as it’s set to be on display at the Pacifico Yokohama National Convention Hall in Yokohama, Japan on February 18-19.
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