the BMW 6 Series   "the E24"

REPORT BY AUGUSTE J. HOCKING, bmwfirst.com Editor

The BMW 6 (codenamed the E24) appeared in 1976, borrowing much of its design and mechanics from the upcoming E23 7 series and provided a much-needed replacement for its predecessor, the E9 30CS/i Coupe. Most of the first models were produced at Karmann's Osnabruck plant before production was brought under the BMW roof a year later. The new Coupe, whose models were aptly marked 'CS' (standing for 'Coupe Sport') were available primarily in two models. You could have a 3.0 litre single carburetor model, the 630CS, or you could opt for vastly more grunt with fuel injection and a bigger 3.3 litre engine in the 633 CSi.

The 633Csi was a more spacious, luxurious example of the sporting archetype than the 630CS, also introducing a handy innovation replicated throughout today's modern cars. This new feature was Check Control, a status-reporting system which allowed the driver to check brake fluid, windscreen washer and oil levels with a push of the 'TEST' button, the system also reported failures in brake lights and lining. The 6s also debuted with the first on-board computer and a (now commonplace) service interval indicator.

In 1978, the 635CSi joined the line-up and in 1979, the entry-level 628CSi tempted buyers into the driver's seat of a six.

In 1983, at the Frankfurt show, the defining 6 series achievement was heralded with the introduction of the M635CSi. This high-performance six boasted the same award-winning M-power engine which propelled the fabulously fast BMW M1, with 6 cylinders and 4 valves for each, totaling a capacity of 3453cc. The 'M6' became one of the fastest cars on the market, encompassing 0-60mph (0-100km/h) in a cool 6.4 seconds (Some sources have stated that time as low as 6.0 seconds). A number of additions to the M635CSi's design 'toughed her up' with respect to the 635CSi. BMW served up stiffened suspension appropriated by Bilstein shocks, more resilient anti-roll bars and stiffer springs. The brakes sported 300mm ventilated discs, and to tolerate 286bhp, a stronger clutch and gearbox was fitted. The M6 only appeared as a manual, with limited slip differential as standard.

M markings on both front and rear of the M635CSi. (Right) BMW trademark front double kidney grille accompanied by a discreet 'M' and (Left) 'M' logo fixed above the right tail-light.

 

All 6s undertook minor facelifts in mid-1987, only for the 628CSi to be discontinued in 1988. As it happened, the 'M6' represented the last major addition to the 6 series which was discontinued in 1989, in favour of a new 8 series. The last car rolled of the assembly line in on April 6, 1989 after a production effort of 80,361 units over a decade and a half.

 

E24 Sample Vehicle - 635CSi     Model: BMW 635CSi Year: 1978 Type: E24 Engine: M30 6cyl. In-line Capacity: 3.4L / 3430cc Photo: 2000, www.bmwinfo.com

Further Images - BMW 6

Important series-specific notes

Engine
All 635s are not equal in terms of specifications. In June 1982 the older M30 engine used in pre-'82 models was discontinued and newer M30 engines (used in the 6's cousin, the 7 series E23) was outfitted in all 635s subsequent. This engine has a higher fuel efficiency rating courtesy an innovative computer control system and is far more desirable. (There is negligible difference in power output between the Pre '82 M30 engine and the Post '82 edition).

US models due to strict anti-pollution legislation were only permitted minimal emissions. As a result, the average US imported six was weaker in power terms (when compared to European editions) and weighed anywhere up to an additional 85kg.

Brakes
ABS was only offered as an option on early 6s. LSD provided the option on later models.

Transmission
Automatic 6s weighed up an extra 20kg compared to their manual counterparts.

Luxury Versions
Designated the 'L6' in the United States, it was a luxury edition of the six available in only automatic form, compliant with lower emission standards and a susequent victim of reduction in power. In the UK, its comparable counterpart was the 635CSi 'Highline' with manual transmission as an option. This model had leather head lining, leather door skins and a leather dashboard amongst other features.

Further bmwfirst.com 6 Series Resources:

E24 Face-off:635CSi vs. M635CSi (the M6)

Buying Guide and Maintenance Issues (6 series)

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