BMW 6 Series Classic Cars for Sale

First produced in 1976 as a replacement vehicle for the E9, the BMW 6 Series was a luxury grand tourer. The first model off the production line was the E24, which took its roots from the earlier generation (E23,) 7 Series. The BMW 6 Series was produced until 1988 and reappeared after a 16-year hiatus in 2004 as the E63 6 Series.

The history of the BMW 6 Series

The production of the BMW 6 Series commenced in March 1976 with two vehicles in the showrooms; the 633 CSi and the 630 CS. The original bodywork was built by Karmann, but BMW decided to take all of the production in-house. In 1978, a very powerful variation of the original models was produced called the 635 CSi. This version though not available in Japan or the US featured as standard, a five-speed close-ratio transmission, and the now famous single piece rear spoiler in black.

The old BMW 6 Series 630 CS gave way to the next generation 628 CSi in 1979. This model had a new 2.8-litre fuel injected engine though the bodywork remained largely unchanged. In 1982, however, the BMW 6 Series had a slight facelift both inside the cabin and out. It was this year that the 635 CSi was given a new smaller-bored engine and a five-speed wide-ratio manual and automatic transmission.

Between 1984 and 1986 vehicles shared the new improved E28 five-series chassis, and after 1987, all of the models came with new ellipsoid headlights.

The last year of production for the BMW 6 Series was in 1989 when it was replaced by the heavier and more exclusive 8 Series.

The M version BMW 6 Series

BMW Motorsport revealed the M 635 CSi to the European market at the motor show in Frankfurt in 1983. This car is essentially an E24 that has the power delivered by the 'powerplant' of the BMW M1. The majority of the BMW M 6 models came with special wheels that needed the Michelin TRX tyres. A car with a lower compression ratio that was catalyzed was sold in the US market from 1987. Every M6 came fitted with a 25 per cent back limited slip differential, as standard. There were additional luxury extras that included Nappa leather 'power' seats, a centred beverage chiller and rear seat air conditioning.

In 1987, an acceleration speed between 0-60 mph was achieved in 6.1 seconds. The last year for the BMW 6 Series M version was 1988.