Everything You Need to Know About the Classic Pro E24

The BMW E24 6 Series stands as one of the most elegant and desirable grand tourers ever produced by the Bavarian automaker. Manufactured from 1976 to 1989, this classic coupe represents the perfect marriage of luxury, performance, and timeless design that continues to captivate enthusiasts decades after production ended.

A Brief History

The classic pro e24 project began in the early 1970s as BMW sought to create a flagship coupe that would compete with the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and other luxury grand tourers. The design, penned by Paul Bracq, featured clean, flowing lines that would influence BMW’s design language for years to come. The shark-nose front end, long hood, and distinctive kidney grilles created an instantly recognizable silhouette that remains stunning today.

Production commenced in 1976 with the 630CS, and the model would evolve through various iterations over its 13-year production run. The E24 was positioned as BMW’s halo car, showcasing the company’s engineering prowess and design philosophy during a crucial period of growth.

Model Variants and Evolution

Early Models (1976-1979)

• 630CS: The original model featured a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 185 horsepower
• 633CSi: Introduced in 1978 with fuel injection and improved performance

The Golden Era (1979-1987)

• 635CSi: Perhaps the most iconic variant, featuring a 3.4-liter inline-six with 218 horsepower
• M635CSi (M6): The high-performance flagship with a 3.5-liter inline-six producing 286 horsepower

Final Years (1987-1989)

• L6: The final evolution with updated styling and improved refinement

Technical Specifications

The E24’s engineering was groundbreaking for its time. The platform featured a sophisticated suspension system with MacPherson struts up front and a semi-trailing arm rear setup. This configuration provided an excellent balance between comfort and handling dynamics.

Key Technical Features:

• Rear-wheel drive layout with near-perfect weight distribution
• Available with both manual and automatic transmissions
• Advanced (for the era) electronic systems including ABS and trip computer
• Robust construction with excellent build quality
• Spacious 2+2 seating configuration

The M6 Legacy

The M635CSi, known simply as the M6 in North America, deserves special recognition as one of BMW’s greatest M cars. With its naturally aspirated S38 engine derived from the M1 supercar, the M6 could accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.4 seconds—impressive performance for the 1980s.

The M6 featured unique aerodynamic enhancements, including front and rear spoilers, side skirts, and distinctive BBS wheels. Inside, sport seats and M-specific trim pieces distinguished it from lesser variants. Today, the M6 is considered one of the most collectible BMWs ever produced.

Design and Styling

The E24’s design has aged remarkably well, with many considering it more attractive than its modern successors. Key design elements include:

• Proportions: Long hood, short rear deck creating classic GT proportions
• Details: Flush-mounted glass, integrated bumpers, and subtle character lines
• Interior: Driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials and excellent ergonomics
• Timelessness: Clean, uncluttered design that avoids period-specific styling cues

Ownership Experience

The Good

• Exceptional build quality and durability when properly maintained
• Timeless design that draws admiration wherever it goes
• Comfortable long-distance cruising capabilities
• Strong enthusiast community and parts availability
• Appreciating values, especially for well-maintained examples

The Challenges

• Higher maintenance costs typical of luxury European cars
• Some electronic systems can be problematic as they age
• Finding quality examples requires patience and knowledge
• Fuel economy is modest by modern standards

Market Values and Collectibility

The E24 market has experienced significant appreciation in recent years, with several factors driving demand:

Price Ranges (as of 2024):

• Driver-quality examples: $15,000-$30,000
• Excellent condition: $35,000-$60,000
• M6 models: $60,000-$100,000+
• Concours-level examples: $80,000-$150,000+

The M6, in particular, has seen dramatic price increases as collectors recognize its significance in BMW’s history. European-spec M635CSi models often command premiums due to their higher performance and rarity in certain markets.

Buying Guide

When shopping for an E24, consider these crucial factors:

Mechanical Inspection Points:

• Engine condition and service history
• Transmission operation (manual preferred by enthusiasts)
• Suspension wear and modifications
• Electrical system functionality
• Cooling system condition

Cosmetic Considerations:

• Paint quality and color matching
• Interior wear, especially leather seats
• Chrome and trim condition
• Wheel condition and authenticity

Documentation:

• Complete service records
• Ownership history
• Original equipment verification
• Any restoration documentation

Maintenance and Ownership Tips

Successful E24 ownership requires understanding these key maintenance areas:

• Regular cooling system service to prevent expensive engine damage
• Electrical system care, particularly grounds and connections
• Suspension bushings and components wear over time
• Interior trim pieces can be fragile and expensive to replace
• Sourcing quality parts from reputable suppliers

The E24 Today

Nearly four decades after its introduction, the classic pro e24 remains relevant and desirable. It represents an era when BMW prioritized driver engagement and design elegance over pure performance numbers. The car offers an analog driving experience that’s increasingly rare in today’s digital automotive landscape.

For enthusiasts seeking a classic BMW that combines everyday usability with appreciating collector status, the E24 6 Series represents an excellent choice. Whether you choose a comfortable 635CSi for weekend drives or hunt for a pristine M6 as an investment piece, the E24 offers a unique ownership experience that few modern cars can match.

Conclusion

The BMW E24 6 Series stands as a testament to an era when automotive design and engineering reached a remarkable peak. Its combination of performance, luxury, and timeless styling created a template that BMW continues to chase with its modern 6 Series successors. For classic car enthusiasts, the E24 offers the perfect blend of usability, performance, and investment potential—truly everything you need in a classic grand tourer.

As values continue to rise and quality examples become increasingly scarce, now may be the perfect time to add this Bavarian classic to your garage. The E24 isn’t just a car; it’s a piece of automotive art that delivers both emotional satisfaction and practical transportation in equal measure.