The E24-chassis of BMW’s “big coupe” 6-Series is a desirable specimen in clean, preserved or restored condition. Less than that, the line between parts car and restoration project gets very thin. This 1986 model is the desirable manual transmission variant with the full CSI kit still attached; however, it has a slight mold problem that limits its appeal. Find it here on craigslist for $2,500.
Thanks to Barn Finds reader Roger for the find, which was spotted on craigslist in Detroit. 1986 was a year I really started to like these, as they came with all sorts of goodies like the big front air dam, a three-spoke “Sport” steering wheel, and the rear spoiler seen here. Amazingly, the rear spoiler – which is made out of the kind of foam that cracks if you look at it wrong – appears to be in great shape. I wonder if the OEM toolkit is still intact in the trunk.
Unfortunately, there’s a legit mold problem due to moisture intrusion into the cabin, according to the seller. The desirable sport seats are coated in mold, as is the steering wheel (which is actually a period aftermarket item, but still somewhat valuable), which dramatically alters this 6-Series’ future prospects. Mold is like rust – it rarely lives only where you can see it. That being said, the dash and carpets don’t appear to share the same affliction.
Engine-wise, these 6-Series were powered by the venerable M30 inline-six, which is among one of the most dependable engines ever made. Sure, like any vintage BMW, it will require more to keep in good order than your garden variety domestic motor, but among the European brands, the M30 was one of the best. This 635CSI is claimed to have a good body and frame, so it seems potentially worth it to swap out the seats and steering wheel for replacements and hope the mold isn’t embedded elsewhere – but that may be impossible.
Hard to believe this is still for sale. Great cars. The mold does not scare me. Funny there are no picks of the two sets of wheels with fresh tires.
A wet rag and some wheels would help a lot. The ad is another example of how to not sell a car. This car deserves much more respect.
There sure are a lot of Eurotrash lovers here.
Eurotrash lovers Miguel? Define?
I think that’s defined as a European car up on jackstands and with mold on the interior.
He can’t define it…
Consider his lack of intellect on display above !
Very tolerant guy who knows everything.
John m leyshon, you are right. I don’t like old European cars. That must mean I am stupid.
Just for the hell of it, how many cars have yo owned in your lifetime?
After you tell me, I will tell you my history.
U have never bin behind the wheel in a decent fast BMW.
So u wouldnt say such.
This car is a beast to drive, not only fast in straigt line
Nice Autobahn racer
Driving a BMW is not the same as bringing one back like this.
I have driven and have owned BMWs. I was not impressed enough to keep it.
Miguel. Different strokes for different folks.I OWN one of these and it’s a ’85 model.It is the only BMW I fell in love with when I was stationed in Germany( I tried to bring one back).These are some sturdy cars and mine still handles well for it’s age in spite it needs a few mechanicals done.Anybody can make trash US,Asia, Europe or otherwise just like they can make good sound vehicles depending on the maintenance and upkeep.Regardless of what you say I love my Bimmer!
Yes, this car is Eurotrash. There are a lot of people here that like them.
I stick with American cars because you can let them sit for 20 years and with very little effort, they can be brought back.
This car had a multitude of problems when it was on the road, just like all of them do and this particular one will take a miracle to get back on the road.
Why are you guys saying this is great car.
Yes I have bought new BMWs. It was a 1998 V8 5 series. I wouldn’t buy a used one of that same model today that is for sure.
What was so great about this car?
American cars are junk too sometimes.I have owned FOUR Cadillac Devilles.Yes four and everyone of them was nothing but problems.I have American vehicles also(Ford Ranger,Cadillac Escalade and a Buick Grand National) along with my BMW.If these cars are trash why is mine still in my driveway after 8 years?Obviously you haven’t seen some of the American stuff on BF that needs some work(if not the crusher!)Anything man made will FAIL Miguel whether it be a Smart car or a Rolls Royce and you should know that.Just because that’s your experience with Euro cars don’t mean it’s everybody else’s experience.
Slight.
A little cleaning will make the interior spic and span.
Shame to see in this condition. You would have to look at the underbelly real good to see how it is, sitting on the ground, Parts car anyway. Good luck, would be cool to see it brought back. Some Greased lightning cleaner and a couple hours would make a world of difference, Good luck to the new owner,
Cheers
GPC
Miguel
If it is not a huge piece of American steel I am starting to think you don’t think it is worth looking at same with the earlier R107 560SL you say broken odometer there are still vehicles out there that are not American that deserve respect if you don’t like them don’t comment on them
I agree Kenneth. Miguel likes to come off as if his review or opinion is all there is. I commented on something once and he leaves his official response of ” I hate them, they are ugly”. Some people are just too into themselves. Miguel is one of those people.
Kenneth I’m with you 100%.
Kenneth, I would love to buy an old Mercedes, but I wouldn’t be able to keep up with the repairs where I am.
I did buy, back in the 90s, a 1973 220D stick shift which I loved for the quality of the build, but these cars are nothing but trouble.
As far as the odometer comment on the Mercedes, I have seen countless odometers on those cars that didn’t work.
My comment was not an opinion, it is from my experience buying and selling cars for years.
If these Mercedes and BMWs are such great cars, why can you buy a 2001 S600 for $2500 in good condition when it cost $150,000 when new?
The interior is easily cleaned. It’s nothing of concern. Literally, hot soapy water and 30 minutes.
These are outstanding cars , seller seems a bit inept on how to sell it, the comment about euro trash lovers , care to clarify that??
Hey, I always call my Euro cars eurotrash lol, I have no problem with it, I know how much better they are :) for those who don’t know the term, it’s quite 80s humorous pseudo punk, so LAUGH! (I mean, why not?)
My first BMW was a ‘79 ROW 635CSi, such a great car, perfect combo of luxury, muscle, and GT. This one looks to be excellent from all I can tell. It’s minus rust in all the standard E24 places, the interior is great, the paint and body look terrific. Someone is going to get a steal on a very nice 6er… thank goodness I don’t live closer :) Nice find guys and gals!
Could’ve done a better job of staging…but this sled is worth saving.
Imma give you a 1,000bux as a “mercy purchase” to clear the yard and keep the domestic peace in your household.Then I’ll get it to my lab…rip those hideous safety bumpers…new seats…carpet…paint…slightly more aggressive suspension. Find my old yellow power tie with matching suspenders & brick cell phone.Try to regrow my Gordon Gekko “power mullet”.(complete with Aquanet hold spray) Then roll up on cars & coffee blasting 80’s soft rock cassette tapes.
proper rims and new tires are worth more than he is asking.
If this was on the east coast I would grab it. No rust in front shock towers.
Had the same year 735i with that engine. Was a blast to drive
Had an 85 535i from new. A few quirks in the first months but it still was exceptional. Wonder how it would have stacked up against my SL500R in later years.
There was a BMW ad at the time that stated “ROCKETSHIP” nuff said. This CSI will be an expensive project well worth the time and…money.
Not many cars will put a smile on your face these days.
From an era of compromised vehicles, these weren’t.
Someone will buy this, give it love and others will envy.
Very well said.