1986 BMW

93k miles / M-Tech I steering wheel / new MOT Jan 2019 / recent main dealer service

The E24 generation of the 6 series is perhaps the most timeless and stunning grand tourer BMW ever produced. While its formidable performance by far outpaced most contemporary coupé cars, it was Paul Bracq’s provocative design – namely the iconic “shark nose” – that made the car truly stand out from the crowd. The E24 was produced by BMW in Dingolfing for over 13 years, during which time it was continuously refined but never wholly overhauled. In spite of its long production run, its high price and exclusive appeal ensured that only a small number of individuals were able to purchase one from new; an even smaller number remains on the road in the UK today.

This particular example is a 1985 model year 635CSi automatic in Dolphin Grey with beige upholstery. Like all examples of BMW’s flagship model, the car comes with many amenities as standard, such as leather upholstery, an electric sunroof, trip computer and check control, power steering, ABS and fog lights. Records show that it was first supplied by Bates of Maldon in March 1986 as a company car to a stock broker in the City of London. Shortly after, the car came into the possession of a married couple in Essex who cared for it very well until 2008. Since then, it has passed through the hands of a few collectors who did not hesitate to spend large sums of money in its upkeep.

This is one of very few truly unmodified original examples surviving on British roads. It is presented in its original colour and upholstery and supplied with the original Blaupunkt radio, floor mats, toolkit and first aid kit. As a rare optional factory extra, this car is also fitted with a valuable M-Tech I steering wheel. It sports extremely rare and desirable 415mm metric alloy wheels with matching Michelin TRX tyres; all four in very good condition. The high replacement cost of these tyres, which fell largely out of use by the early 1990s, is the reason why the majority of BMW E24 we see today are fitted with aftermarket or non period-correct wheels. A matching set of 17” Alpina wheels are also available for sale by separate negotiation.

The car has seen very high expenditure in recent years in an effort to restore it to its full glory; we also believe this will help keep the maintenance costs low for its next deserving owner. First and foremost, the car underwent a thorough restoration of the bodywork in 2016, including the replacement of several corroded panels and a full glass-out respray in the original colour. Moreover, numerous mechanical improvements have been undertaken. This includes a full automatic gearbox rebuild, head gasket and timing chain replacement, rebuild of the exhaust system (with genuine BMW parts) and the fitting of new brake discs and pads all around.

Supplied with a new MOT and recent main dealer service (10/2017), this car is ready to go to its new home. Grab yourself an appreciating classic BMW for the spring! Please do not hesitate to get in touch with any queries or reasonable offers.