The happy conclusion of the comprehensive restoration of a historic vehicle is invariably awaited with excited anticipation. The end of September 2012 marked the completion of another such project: a 1972 BMW 2000 Touring, completely rebuilt in the BMW Classic Customer Workshop to as-new condition, was ceremoniously handed over to its owner – former President of the Board of Directors of the Hilti Group, Michael Hilti – against the backdrop of the “standard” vehicle delivery procedure at BMW Welt.
The delight was visible on everyone’s face. “To be able to get back behind the wheel of this car, which I owned in the 1970s and is now in perfect condition again, is just amazing. My wife managed to track down the model, which I was driving when I first met her, and gave it to me as a present,” says Michael Hilti. BMW Group Classic management were likewise very happy with the result: “The successful restoration of the BMW 2000 Touring with its output of more than 170 hp is further evidence that, together with our partners in the BMW Group production network, we are able to carry out major restorations at the highest level and tailored to the wishes of each customer,” commented Ralf Vierlein, Director Sales and Aftersales at BMW Group Classic.
When the BMW 2000 Touring was delivered to BMW Classic, its condition was classified at the lowest possible level, which meant it needed extensive restoration work. A complete overhaul of the vehicle required months of research and countless hours of manual labour. The experts at the BMW Classic Center not only dealt with substantial bodywork damage but also completely overhauled the technology, electronics and interior fittings in accordance with the customer’s requests. The body features Alpina-spec metal wheel arch flarings, an interior with sports seats, and Alpina wheel rims.
The car was also fitted with a completely rebuilt 5-speed sports transmission and a stainless steel sports exhaust system. It is now in A1 condition.
BMW Classic Customer Workshop: one-stop shop for all-round service.
In developing its own Customer Workshop, BMW Classic is delivering the perfect response to the growing desire among many BMW enthusiasts to own a car that is as true as possible to the original and in the best possible condition. “The workshop is a key component in the realignment of BMW Classic and our approach to customers in the classics market,” says Karl Baumer, Director of BMW Group Classic. In parallel with this, the supply and remanufacture of parts is undergoing further expansion. Other business areas have also been added, such as the purchase and sale of vehicles, authentication certificates, buyer consultation and a global collection and delivery service. The crucial advantage of the BMW Classic Center is that it offers all-round service under one roof. “We possess the theoretical knowledge regarding the vehicles, the technical know-how, the Original BMW parts and the requisite infrastructure to link it all up systematically,” continues Ralf Vierlein.
In future, on completion of a full restoration by the BMW Classic Center, owners can take delivery of their vehicle in the unique surroundings of BMW Welt. This form of handover is not just a unique experience for the owner but a particularly eloquent example of the accomplished symbiosis of past and present within the BMW Group.
