My 1971 1600 Cabriolet Engine Photos

The original 1600 engine was replaced during the restoration with a 2 liter motor.  The VIN number from the block indicates that it was originally out of a 1971 BMW 2000, which was the 4 door sedan.  The BMW 2000 was the first model to sport the 1990 CC, 100 HP engine that was later transfered to the BMW 1600 to create the famous 2002.  Some of the BMW 2000 engines had higher compression pistons and dual Solex carbs, but I expect that this engine is the stock model with 8.5 to 1 pistons. The engine as delivered can be seen in the photo on the left.  After rebuilding the original Solex 1 barrel caburator, I added a powder-coated valve cover gasket, new plug wires and loom from Kingsborne, coil, strut bearing caps, Optima Battery and front strut bar.  I will eventually need to replace the distributor, the screw that holds down the point is stripped and I can't do a Petronix upgrade until it is replaced.