3 Series Sedan

Make
BMW
Segment
Sedan

Electric classic car restomods are big business, with more and more gearheads opting to purchase an electrified take on a motoring icon. Bavarian Econs is the latest to hop on the bandwagon with its battery-powered BMW 2002te. While it looks just like the Bimmer we know and love, the combustion engine has been swapped out for a more modern electric motor.

Weighing in at around 2,425 pounds, the 2002te uses its modest outputs of 161 horsepower and 125 lb-ft of torque to the best of its advantage. 0 to 62 mph comes up in a respectable 6.2 seconds, making this electric classic quicker than the 2002 Turbo, one of the greatest BMWs ever built.

If you're not aware, the 2002 preceded the 3 Series range, which is still going strong to this day.

With an estimated range of 124 miles, the 2002te isn't ideal for long-distance drivers or everyday use. But the claimed range is more than enough for a spirited drive into the countryside, or even to run some errands in town. Bavarian Econs says the vehicle needs just 45 minutes to charge to 80%, thanks to the 80 kW CCS fast charging system, which isn't bad.

Aside from the charging port, which is cleverly disguised behind the fuel cap, there's nothing that would lead you to believe this is an electric BMW. The oh-so-seventies yellow paintwork and auxiliary front lamps are delightful. Together with the chrome trimmings and sporty multi-spoke wheels, the 2002te cuts a stylish figure.

It's pretty much the same story when you climb inside, where you will find a solidly-built but spartan interior.

The gorgeous, leather-trimmed bucket seats dominate the cabin, while the driver looks at the classic BMW dials through a three-spoke steering wheel. Only, they're not classic BMW instruments - Bavarian Econs have created dials that look just like the originals, only these indicate battery percentage and charging speed.

It doesn't look like a very practical car, though. The trunk is filled with wiring and equipment for the electric drivetrain, which robs you of cargo space. Then again, the average buyer of the 2002te probably isn't very interested in trunk space - they have other cars for that. And lots of money. According to BMW Blog, this particular model has a starting price of €180,000 (approx $194,000) which is ludicrous. For that money, you could purchase a BMW iX and an M3, and use the change to go on a nice vacation.