BMW have recently been producing a collection of rather fantastic concept cars that pay tribute to cars of their illustrious history, cars that they bless with the illustrious title of ‘Hommage’. At Villa D’Este 2016 we have been presented with their latest Hommage recreation, as the name suggests it has been linked to the gorgeous and petit BMW 2002 Turbo, a car that plays a very important role in the Bavarian companies history with it being the first turbocharged vehicle to be sold in Europe.

“Exactly 50 years ago, the 02 range kick-started an era of success for BMW. This compact coupe is one of the vehicles which made the brand what it is today.”

The concept design study is a marvel for the eyes. There are lines that have clearly been inspired from the 2002 but have been accentuated to look more muscular and pronounced, almost a caricature of its ancestor.

 

 

 

 

The sporty silhouette of the BMW 2002 Hommage sits squat and low. Its compact proportions, complete with long wheelbase, short overhangs and prominent “shark nose”, promise a driving experience that thrills with irresistible dynamics and agility. Aerodynamic details like the large spoilers at the front and rear team up with the profusion of air intakes to optimise airflow around the car and maximise downforce in every driving situation promise BMW.

There is a fantastic attention to detail on the modern interpretation. Inspired by the signature chrome strip that ringed the 02 in its day, a horizontal carbon band wraps itself around the shoulderline of the BMW 2002 Hommage and splits the body visually into separate sections.

 

BMW 2002 Hommage (8)Personally there are a few aspects that really stood out to me seeing the car in the flesh. A particularly striking feature of the car’s flanks are the voluminously moulded wheel arches, which frame the body like four brackets and add stature. In the process, they recall the homologated version of the BMW 2002 turbo, which needed broad extensions bolted onto its body to accommodate a significantly wider track.

Additionally the 20-inch light-alloy wheels in bi-colour design might just be the best wheels I have ever seen. The modern looks of these lavishly milled, multi-spoke items recall the racing rims of bygone eras, while gold-coloured brake callipers bearing the M logo add to the visual drama. The aggressive front end with a very pronounced front splitter adorned with the reversed ‘Turbo’ decal heightens the visual punch.

BMW 2002 Hommage (2)The car is based on the M2, under the skin there are are no special modifications. The body is entirely carbon fibre and the question on everyones mind is if BMW produce such a menacing machine. The BMW teams have been quick to mention that if they wanted to they could create a homologated road legal machine immediately, but are keeping their card close to their chests. We can only dream that they take queues from this dramatic design and link them to the M2 resulting in a BMW M2 CSL. We can dream!

 

 

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