Early 635 CSi from 1979
Effortless 3.5-litre straight-six producing 218 hp
Extensively overhauled mechanically
Elegant grand tourer from the first generation of the BMW 6 Series
With the introduction of the E24 6 Series in 1976, BMW created a successor to the great E9 coupés. The styling, shaped by Paul Bracq, combined a long bonnet, low waistline and frameless side windows with BMW’s distinctive, slightly forward-leaning front end. The result was an elegant grand tourer that remained unmistakably sporting despite its substantial dimensions.
Initially, the range comprised the 630 CS and 633 CSi, but as early as 1978 the 635 CSi moved to the top of the line-up. Its 3.5-litre straight-six produced 218 hp, making the large coupé one of the fastest German grand tourers of its day. Chassis, performance and comfort struck a typically BMW balance: the 635 CSi was more than fast enough for the unrestricted stretches of the Autobahn, yet never sacrificed the qualities of a comfortable long-distance GT. The model would later also form the basis of the E24’s successful career in motorsport.
This BMW 635 CSi was built in 1979 and is therefore one of the early examples of the range-topping model. In recent years, it has undergone extensive mechanical work. Compression and valve clearances were checked, while the ignition system, fuel hoses and fuel tank were renewed, and the cooling system and engine serviced.
The differential, flexible coupling and braking system also received appropriate attention. Inside, a new headlining was fitted.
Numerous typical age-related jobs have therefore already been addressed – a welcome foundation for an early 635 CSi and one of those BMWs that combined elegance and sporting long-distance motoring particularly convincingly.