1986 BMW M635CSi

The M635CSi somehow gets lost among the other greats of the period from BMW. Perhaps, for U.S. fans, it’s the nomenclature that’s confusing. After all, there was a M1, an M3, and a M5, but when it came to the M version of the E24, BMW stuck with the moniker M635CSi in all markets but the United States and Japan. Confounding that decision was the launch of the E28 M535i. Like the M635CSi, it had additional body pieces, special interior trim and wheels from M-Technic. But while the M535i had a fairly normal M30 under the hood, the E24 received the full-fat M88/3 that was shared with the M5. Like the European M5 production started in 1984, well before they were available to U.S. customers. But while the M5 only sold in very sparse numbers over its short production cycle (about 775 sold in Europe between 1984 and 1987), the M635i was a relative hit, with just over 3,900 selling overall – far more than made it the U.S. market. Additionally, the European models were a slightly more pure form of the design; smaller bumpers, less weight, and about 30 more horsepower on tap without catalyst.

These European spec models were offered with some color combinations and interiors that never came to the U.S. market. A great example of the combination of these factors is today’s 1986 right hand drive model in the striking “Akaziengrün” – Acacia Green Metallic:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1986 BMW M635CSi on Classic Driver

Year: 1986
Model: M635CSi
Engine: 3.5 liter inline-6
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 84,581 mi
Price: Auction

Summary

Year of manufacture
1986
Mileage
84 581 mi / 136 120 km
Car type
Other
Lot number
TBA 63313

Drive
RHD
Condition
Used

Location
Exterior colour
Other
Gearbox
Manual

Description

“The BMW M635CSi was the brainchild of BMW’s Motorsport department and arrived to the market in 1984. Karmann manufactured the early 6-Series BMWs from launch in 1976 before BMW took production in-house. The engine was a development of the M1 supercar’s 3453cc, 24-valve, six-cylinder unit producing 286bhp, the increased power necessitating chassis improvements which included altered weight distribution, revised suspension, larger brakes and a limited-slip differential. There was also a close-ratio five-speed gearbox (or four-speed multi-mode auto) and a more luxurious interior, while outwardly this ultimate 6-Series model was readily distinguishable by virtue of its ‘M Technic’ body kit. Performance was impressive with the M635CSi being capable of reaching 0-62mph in around 6 seconds on its way to a top speed in excess of 155mph.
Originally registered on 14th November 1986, this M635CSi has only had two former keepers and has covered 84,581 miles from new, averaging less than 2,800 miles per annum. The current vendor has looked after this BMW exceedingly well; she comes with the original service booklet with 22 stamps, together with a good history folder. Finished in Acacia Green with matching interior, this BMW has been garaged correctly and as such, presents in very good order throughout. During our inspection the engine started immediately when requested and sounded superb with no adverse noises or rattles; we are advised by the vendor that she drives with no known faults. Fitted with a generous factory specification, this car has the optional deep dish alloy wheels to complement its handsome lines. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a current MoT test certificate valid until 17th May 2018, these superb machines are rapidly becoming sought after by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
”

I’m certainly partial to unusual colors, and this is one not often seen tone on an E24. Only made through the 1986 model year, not many buyers opted for the pastel metallic green to adorn their grand tourer. It reminds me of the later Evergreen from the E36 range and I simply adore it. What a pretty example!

It looks to be quite original overall, though I’ll admit a few of the pictures seem to indicate there may have been paintwork along the way. It’s claimed to have the optional wheels, but I believe the factory option M635CSi wheels were the 3-piece BBS 415mm wheels; these look like the same black-stripe TRX 415s that came on the U.S.-spec M6. The tires look to be newer replacements, thankfully. I can’t quite get a good glimpse of the interior, but it appears to be either Nuturia or Anthracite leather. Closeup shots reveal it’s not perfect, but certainly a very good driver-quality example that could benefit from a serious detailing. Little specific history is offered, but the mileage is lower and general presentation looks very nice.

Although it’s an auction, there is no estimate provided and the price is listed as on request. Similar examples of the M635CSi are listed on Classic Driver between $65,000 and $80,000; a lot compared to where the U.S. M6 sits, but this car can be viewed as a more special variant in many ways and the pricing is in line with what EAG is asking for equivalent cars. For most, this will remain just a dream then, but what a beautiful dream.

-Carter