View source for BMW 6 Series (E24)

{{Use British English|date=June 2024}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = BMW 6 Series
| image = BMW 633 CSi Front-Side.JPG
| manufacturer = [[BMW]]
| production = {{ubl
 | January 1976 – April 1989
 | 86,216 produced
}}
| class = [[Grand tourer]]
| body_style = 2-door [[coupé]]
| assembly = West Germany: [[Karmann]] (1976–1977)<br />West Germany: [[BMW Group Plant Dingolfing|Dingolfing]] (1977–1989)
| engine = {{ubl
  |'''[[Petrol engine|Petrol]]''':
  |2.8&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M30#M30B28|M30B28]]'' [[Straight-six engine|I6]]
  |3.0&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M30#M30B30|M30B30]]'' I6
  |3.2&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M30#M30B32|M30B32]]'' I6
  |3.4&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M30#M30B34|M30B34]]/[[BMW M30#M30B35|M30B35]]'' I6
  |3.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M88#M90|M90]]'' I6
  |3.5&nbsp;L ''[[BMW M88|M88]]/[[BMW S38|S38]]'' [[DOHC]] I6
  }}
| layout = [[Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive]]
| length = {{ubl
  | {{cvt|4755|mm|in|1}}<ref name=BMWE24>{{cite web|title=BMW 628 CSi 635CSi TECHNISCHE BESCHREIBUNG|url=http://wp1016621.server-he.de/fotost/f02080/E24-635CSi-Unterlagen.pdf|publisher=BMW|access-date=19 February 2019|archive-date=20 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190220002907/http://wp1016621.server-he.de/fotost/f02080/E24-635CSi-Unterlagen.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref>
  | US: {{cvt|4923|mm|in|1}}
  }}
| width = {{convert|1725|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name=BMWE24 />
| height = {{convert|1365|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name=BMWE24 />
| wheelbase = {{convert|2630|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}<ref name=BMWE24 />
| weight = {{convert|1450|-|1619|kg|lb|abbr=on}}<ref name=BMWE24 />
| predecessor = [[BMW E9]]
| successor = [[BMW 6 Series (E63)]]
| designer = [[Paul Bracq]]
| model_code = E24
}}

The '''BMW E24''' is the first generation of [[BMW 6 Series]] range of [[grand tourer]] cars, which was produced from January 1976 to 1989 and replaced the [[BMW E9]] coupé.

The E24 was produced solely in a 2-door coupé body style.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bmwblog.com/2014/07/23/first-bmw-6-series-model-e24-history/|title=The first BMW 6 Series model. E24 history|date=2014-07-23|website=BMW BLOG|access-date=2017-08-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170829204356/http://www.bmwblog.com/2014/07/23/first-bmw-6-series-model-e24-history/|archive-date=2017-08-29|url-status=dead}}</ref> All models used petrol straight-six engines, with the majority (aside from the M635CSi/M6 model) using a version of the [[BMW M30]] engine family. The E24 shared many parts with the [[BMW 5 Series (E12)|E12 5&nbsp;series]], and in 1982 was updated with parts from the newly released [[BMW 5 Series (E28)|E28 5&nbsp;series]].

The M635CSi is the first of the [[BMW M6]] model line and is powered by the [[BMW M88#Versions|M88/3]] straight-six engine.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.classicdriver.com/en/article/cars/bmw-m635csi-shark-sharp-suit|title=BMW M635CSi: Shark in a sharp suit|website=www.classicdriver.com|language=en-US|access-date=2017-08-29}}</ref> In North America, the vehicle is badged as "M6" and uses the less powerful [[BMW S38]] engine.<ref>{{cite web|title=6'E24 M6 model selection|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E24&body=Cou&model=M6&market=USA&prod=19860700|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=17 April 2017}}</ref>

The eventual successor to the nameplate, the [[BMW 6 Series (E63)|E63 6 Series]], was released in 2004 after a 16-year hiatus. Although the [[BMW 8 Series (E31)|E31 8 Series]] was introduced as production of the E24 was ending, the 8 Series is considered a separate model line and therefore not a successor to the E24.<ref>{{cite web|title=The 8-Series Was One Of BMW's Best Failed Experiments| first = Patrick | last = George | url=http://jalopnik.com/the-8-series-was-one-of-bmws-best-failed-experiments-1585763392|website=www.jalopnik.com|date=5 June 2014 |access-date=18 April 2017}}</ref>

{{TOC limit|3}}

== Development and production ==
The E24 was designed by [[Paul Bracq]].<ref>{{cite book |last=Norbye |first=Jan P. |title=BMW - Bavaria's Driving Machines |year=1984 |publisher=Publications International |location=Skokie, IL |isbn=0-517-42464-9 |page=[https://archive.org/details/bmwbavariasdrivi00norb/page/220 220] |url-access=registration |url=https://archive.org/details/bmwbavariasdrivi00norb/page/220 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= http://ateupwithmotor.com/model-histories/bmw-e24-6series/view-all/|title= Status-Seeking Missiles: The BMW E24 6-Series Coupes |website=www.ateupwithmotor.com |date= 13 February 2010 |access-date= 8 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |last1=Lewin |first1=Tony |title=The Complete Book of BMW: Every Model since 1950 |date=25 December 2004 |url= {{Google books|AZKFLcLybIMC|page=111|plainurl=yes}} |publisher=Motorbooks International |isbn=0-7603-1951-0 |page=111}}</ref> Unlike its [[BMW E9|E9]] predecessor, the body of the E24 has a [[B pillar]].<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E24 Six Series|url=http://www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/e24.html|website=www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk|access-date=6 May 2017|archive-date=5 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170905094528/http://www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/e24.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The initial proposal for the E24 was  based on a [[BMW E9]] 3.0&nbsp;CS with an increased height, in order to make it easier for customers to enter and exit the vehicle. However, [[Bob Lutz (businessman)|Bob Lutz]] rejected the proposal, eventually leading to the shape of the E24 in its production form.<ref>{{cite book|last= Lutz|first= Robert A.|url= {{Google books|B1ht0aQ1KZoC|Guts: 8 Laws of Business from One of the Most Innovative Business Leaders of Our Time|page=22|plainurl=yes}}|title=Guts: 8 Laws of Business from One of the Most Innovative Business Leaders of Our Time|publisher=Wiley and Sons|year= 2003}}</ref>

Production of the 633CSi started in January 1976 with the carburetted 630CS following in February 1976.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3597065|title=BMW Classic - Recherche-Client|website=bmw-grouparchiv.de|access-date=2017-12-26|archive-date=2020-10-25|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201025161420/https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3597065|url-status=dead}}</ref> A total of 86,216 cars were built prior to production ending in April 1989.<ref name=DeAutos45bis90Oswald>{{cite book |last=Oswald |first=Werner | title= Deutsche Autos 1945-1990, Band 4| language = de | date = 2001 |publisher=Motorbuch Verlag |isbn=3-613-02131-5}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Model selection - 6'E24 - Coupe - 635CSi - EUR - 04/1989 |url=https://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E24&body=Cou&model=635CSi&market=EUR&prod=19890400 |website=www.realoem.com |access-date=9 November 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bmwcoupe.se/production-numbers|title=E24 production numbers|author=Lars-Åke Carlsson|publisher=BMWCoupe.se|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130407055749/http://www.bmwcoupe.se/production-numbers|archive-date=2013-04-07}}</ref>

Originally the bodies were manufactured by [[Karmann]], but production was later taken in-house to the [[BMW Group Plant Dingolfing]]. Early series one E24s in original condition are now quite rare, particularly Karmann assembled cars (look for the Karmann build plate in the left door frame) produced before August 1977.<ref name=Schnell>{{cite web|title=Schnell, geräumig, sparsam, leise| trans-title = Fast, spacious, economical, quiet | date = 2011-04-15 | work = [[Auto Motor und Sport]] | publisher = Motor Presse Stuttgart GmbH & Co.KG | url=https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/kaufberatung/kaufberatung-bmw-628-csi-bis-635-csi-e24-schnell-geraeumig-sparsam-leise/ | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20201019222247/https://www.auto-motor-und-sport.de/oldtimer/kaufberatung-bmw-628-csi-bis-635-csi-e24-schnell-geraeumig-sparsam-leise/ | archive-date = 2020-10-19 | language=de}}</ref>

== Design ==
;Suspension and steering
Front suspension consists of [[MacPherson strut]]s and the rear suspension is independent [[Trailing arm|semi-trailing arms]].<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E24 Giant Test from 628CSi, 633CSi, 635CSi, to M635CSi and Alpina B9 3.5|url=https://drive-my.com/en/test-drive/item/2302-bmw-e24-giant-test-from-628csi-633csi-635csi-to-m635csi-and-alpina-b9-3-5.html|website=www.drive-my.com|date=22 February 2016 |access-date=24 April 2017}}</ref> In 1982, the front suspension was upgraded to include twin-pivot lower control arms and the geometry of the rear suspension was revised.<ref>{{cite web|title=Status-Seeking Missiles: The BMW E24 6-Series Coupes|url=https://ateupwithmotor.com/model-histories/bmw-e24-6series/4/|website= Ate Up With Motor |date=13 February 2010 | archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20150403074325/https://ateupwithmotor.com/model-histories/bmw-e24-6series/4/ | archivedate= 3 April 2015 | first = Aaron | last = Severson }}</ref>

The steering uses a [[recirculating ball]] system with power assistance.<ref>{{cite web|title=BMW E24 Mechanicals|url=http://www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/e24mechanics.html|website=www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk|access-date=24 April 2017|archive-date=4 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170504052946/http://www.unixnerd.demon.co.uk/e24mechanics.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

;Engines
[[File:BMW M635CSi engine PL.JPG|thumb|right|[[BMW M88#M88/3|BMW M88/3]] engine used in the M635CSi model]]
Figures in the upper table are for European specification models.<ref name="DeAutos45bis90Oswald" /><ref>{{citation |title=Betriebsanleitung 630CS, 633CSi | trans-title = Operating Manual 630CS, 633CSi | language = de | url = https://bmw-grouparchiv.de/research/detail/index.xhtml?id=3075389 |work= BMW Group Archiv | page = 86 | date = February 1976 | publisher = BMW AG | access-date=31 March 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=BMW 6-Series E24 data and specifications catalogue |url=https://www.automobile-catalog.com/model/bmw/6-series_e24.html |website=www.automobile-catalog.com |access-date=31 March 2021}}</ref> The second half of the table covers US (and Canadian, often also as sold in Japan) market specifications.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;vertical-align:middle"
|-
!Model|| Years || Engine || Displacement || Power || Torque || [[Catalytic converter|Cat.]]
|-
| 628CSi || 1979–1987 || [[BMW M30#M30B28|M30B28]]<br>[[SOHC]] [[Straight-six engine|I6]] || 2788&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|135|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,800 rpm || {{convert|235|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,200 rpm || –
|-
| 630CS || 1976–1979 || [[BMW M30#M30B30V|M30B30V]]<br>SOHC I6 || 2986&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|185|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,800 rpm || {{convert|255|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 3,500 rpm || –
|-
| rowspan="2" | 633CSi || 1976–1979 || rowspan="2" | [[BMW M30#M30B32|M30B32]]<br>SOHC I6 || rowspan="2" | 3210&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|200|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,500 rpm || {{convert|285|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,300 rpm || –
|-
| 1979–1984 || {{cvt|145|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,500 rpm || {{convert|280|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,250 rpm || –
|-
| rowspan="5" |635CSi || 1978–1982 || [[BMW M88#M90|M90]]<br>SOHC I6 || 3453&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|160|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,200 rpm || {{convert|304|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || –
|-
| 1982–1987 || rowspan="2" | [[BMW M30#M30B34|M30B34]]<br>SOHC I6 || rowspan="4" | 3430&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|160|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,500 rpm || {{convert|310|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || –
|-
| 1985–1987 || {{cvt|185|PS|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,400 rpm || {{convert|290|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || ●
|-
| 1987–1989 || rowspan="2" | [[BMW M30#M30B35|M30B35]]<br>SOHC I6 || {{cvt|162|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,700 rpm || {{convert|310|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || –
|-
| 1987–1989 || {{cvt|155|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 5,700 rpm || {{convert|305|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || ●
|-
| M635CSi || 1984–1989 || [[BMW M88#M88/3|M88/3]]<br>[[DOHC]] I6 || rowspan="2" | 3453&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|210|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 6,500 rpm || {{convert|340|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,500 rpm || –
|-
| M635CSi || 1986–1989 || [[BMW S38#S38B35|S38B35]]<br>DOHC I6 || {{cvt|191|kW|kW PS hp|0|order=out}} <br/> at 6,500 rpm || {{convert|330|Nm|lbft|0|abbr=on}} <br/> at 4,500 rpm || ●
|-
! colspan="7" | US market specifications<ref name=scimp119>{{Cite book | ref = SCimp | title = Standard Catalog of Imported Cars, 1946-1990 | first = James M. | last = Flammang | publisher = Krause Publications, Inc. | location = Iola, WI | pages = 119–126 | date = 1994 | isbn = 0-87341-158-7 }}</ref>
|-
!Model|| Model years || Engine || Displacement || Power || Torque || [[Catalytic converter|Cat.]]
|-
| 630CSi || 1977–1978 || [[BMW M30#M30B30|M30B30]]<br>SOHC I6 || 2986&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|176|hp|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 5,500 rpm || {{cvt|185|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,500 rpm || ●
|-
| rowspan="3" | 633CSi || 1978–1979 || rowspan="3" | [[BMW M30#M30B32|M30B32]]<br>SOHC I6 || rowspan="3" | 3210&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|177|hp|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 5,500 rpm || {{cvt|196|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || ●
|-
| 1980–1981 || {{cvt|174|hp|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 5,200 rpm || {{cvt|188|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,200 rpm || ●
|-
| 1982–1984 || {{cvt|181|hp|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 6,000 rpm || {{cvt|195|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || ●
|-
| rowspan="2" | 635CSi<br>L6 || 1985–1987<br>1987 (L6) || [[BMW M30#M30B34|M30B34]]<br>SOHC I6 || rowspan="2" | 3430&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|182|hp|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 5,400 rpm || {{cvt|214|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || ●
|-
| 1988–1989 || [[BMW M30#M30B35|M30B35]]<br>SOHC I6 || {{cvt|208|hp|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 5,700 rpm || {{cvt|225|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,000 rpm || ●
|-
| M6 || 1987–1989* || [[BMW S38#S38B35|S38B35]]<br>DOHC I6 || 3453&nbsp;cc || {{cvt|256|hp|kW|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 6,500 rpm || {{cvt|243|lbft|Nm|0|disp=flip}} <br/> at 4,500 rpm || ●
|}

;Transmissions
Initially, the E24 was available with a 4-speed manual transmission ([[Magna PT#Longitudinal orientation|Getrag]] 262),<ref name="realoem_633">{{cite web|title=6' E24 633CSi Manual gearbox|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=5231-EUR-07-1976-E24-BMW-633CSi&diagId=23_0610|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=24 April 2017}}</ref> a 5-speed manual transmission (Getrag 265),<ref name="realoem_633" /> or a 3-speed automatic transmission ([[ZF 3HP22 transmission|ZF 3HP22]]).<ref>{{cite web|title=6' E24 633CSi Automatic transmission|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=5241-EUR-07-1976-E24-BMW-633CSi&diagId=24_0021|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=24 April 2017}}</ref>

In 1983 the automatic transmission was upgraded to a 4-speed [[ZF 4HP22 transmission|ZF 4HP22]].<ref>{{cite web|title=6' E24 628CSi Automatic transmission|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=5181-EUR-12-1982-E24-BMW-628CSi&diagId=24_0780|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=24 April 2017}}</ref>

== M635CSi / M6 model ==
[[File:1985 BMW M 635 CSi (E24) Solitude Revival 2022 1X7A0101.jpg|thumb|M635CSi model]]
{{Main|BMW M6#E24}}

The M635CSi model, introduced at the [[Frankfurt Motor Show#1983|Frankfurt Motor Show]] in 1983, is the first in the line of [[BMW M6#E24 M635CSi/M6 (1983–1989)|M6]] models. In 1987, the equivalent model for the North American (U.S. and Canada) market was introduced and badged simply 'M6'.

The M635CSi is powered by a {{cvt|210|kW|PS|0}} version of the [[BMW M88#M88/3|BMW M88/3]] straight-six engine.<ref>{{cite web|title=1984 - 1989 BMW M635 CSi Specifications |url=http://www.ultimatecarpage.com/spec/2405/BMW-M635-CSi.html|website=www.ultimatecarpage.com|access-date=27 Jan 2018}}</ref> The North American M6 vehicle is powered by the detuned {{cvt|256|hp|kW hp PS|0|order=out}} version of the [[BMW S38]] straight-six engine, which has a lower compression ratio and uses a catalytic converter.

Over its production run from 1983 through 1989, 5,855 {{nowrap|M635CSi}}/M6 cars were built, 1,767 of which were for the North American market, and 524 right hand drive cars for the United Kingdom.<ref name="m-registry">{{cite web|url=http://www.bmwmregistry.com/model_faq.php?id=5 |title=FAQ E24 M635CSi/M6 |website=www.bmwmregistry.com |access-date=3 October 2010}}</ref>

== Yearly changes ==
=== 1976 ===
The new 6 Series coupé, using the model code E24, was introduced to the press in March 1976, suggesting production commenced in 1975.

Initially there were two models available: 630 CS and 633 CSI. Karmann constructed the 6 series coupé, as well as the earlier BMW coupés. There were a total of 1665 units of the 630 CS (plus 410 630 CSi, bound for the United States) and 2858 units of the 633 CSi (this number also includes right-hand drive cars) produced in the first year, amongst a total of 4,933 cars produced for the year.<ref>{{cite web |title=E24 Production Numbers |url=http://www.bmwcoupe.se/production-numbers |website=BMWCoupe.se | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130523133709/http://www.bmwcoupe.se/production-numbers | archive-date= 2013-05-23 | date = 2011-01-15 | first = Lars-Åke | last = Carlsson }}</ref>

=== 1977 ===
Production of E24 continued in 1977 at Karmann as a complete assembly until August, when only the steel body shell was made by Karmann and then shipped to BMW's plant in Dingolfing for assembly.<ref>{{cite web|title=Model Evolution - 1977|url=http://e-24.ru/eng/theory/evolution/1977/|website=www.e-24.ru|access-date=6 May 2017}}</ref>

Karmann-bodied cars are now rare and highly collectable,<ref>{{cite web |title=1985 BMW 635 CSi (E24) – If It Is Bracq, Don't Fix It |url=https://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-european/curbside-classic-1985-bmw-635-csi-e24-if-it-is-bracq-dont-fix-it/ |work = Curbside Classic |access-date=2 October 2021 |date=10 February 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Buying Guide BMW E24 635CSi |url=https://drive-my.com/buying-guide-bmw-e24-635csi/ |website=www.drive-my.com |access-date=2 October 2021 |date=26 January 2016}}</ref> particularly in original condition in early factory colours such as orange (028 ''Phönix''), green (079 ''Mintgrün''), and yellow (070 ''Golf'') - the latter very rare.

=== 1978 ===
In July 1978, the more powerful 635CSi variant was introduced. The 635CSi featured a close-ratio 5-speed gearbox and a single piece black rear spoiler. The [[BMW M30#M90|M90]] engine was a single overhead cam version of the [[BMW M1|M1]]'s [[BMW M88|M88 engine]], its bigger bore and shorter stroke resulted in {{cvt|160|kW|PS hp|0}} and increased torque. The aerodynamic changes reduced uplift at high speeds by almost 15 percent over the other E24 models.<ref>{{cite web|title=Model Evolution - 1978|url=http://e-24.ru/eng/theory/evolution/1978/|website=www.e-24.ru|access-date=6 May 2017}}</ref>

=== 1979 ===
In 1979 the carburetted 630CS was replaced with the 628CSi;<ref>{{cite web|title=Model Evolution - 1979|url=http://e-24.ru/eng/theory/evolution/1979/|website=www.e-24.ru|access-date=6 May 2017}}</ref> this car had a fuel-injected 2.8L engine taken from the [[BMW E12|E12]] 528i. An [[anti-lock braking system]] became available as an option.

=== 1980 ===
In 1980, the fuel-injection systems changed from Bosch [[Jetronic|L-jetronic]] to Bosch [[Motronic]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Model Evolution - 1980|url=http://e-24.ru/eng/theory/evolution/1980/|website=www.e-24.ru|access-date=6 May 2017}}</ref> The 635CSi central locking system could now be operated from the passenger door and [[boot (car)|trunk]].

=== 1982 facelift ===
In 1982 (1983 model year in the US), the E24 was updated with parts from [[BMW E28|E28 5 Series]], resulting changes to exterior styling, engines, chassis, suspension, electronics and the interior. The struts in the new front suspension were double-linked ones, making the car less likely to dip under hard braking. The new rear axle was nearly identical to the trailing arm layout of the [[BMW E28|E28 528i]], with a new pitman arm to control camber changes.<ref name=TV178223>{{cite magazine | title = Fintrimmad | trans-title = Tuned up | ref = TVn17 | language = sv | magazine = [[Teknikens Värld]] | publisher = Specialtidningsförlaget AB | location = Stockholm, Sweden | page = 23 | date = 1982-08-11 | issue = 17 | volume = 34 | first = Peter | last = Haventon }}</ref> Meanwhile, the ventilated rear discs had proven a needless complication and were replaced with solid ones. The rust protection was improved considerably along with the facelift.<ref name=Schnell/>

The 635CSi engine was updated to the {{convert|3430|cc|cuin|0|abbr=on}} [[BMW M30#M30B34|M30B34]], which used a smaller bore and longer stroke than the previous {{convert|3453|cc|cuin|0|abbr=on}} M90 engine. The 635CSi became available with a wide-ratio 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission.

<gallery widths=200 heights=140>
BMW E24, Schaffen Diest Fly-Drive 2013.JPG|Post-facelift model (front)
1987 BMW 635CSi.jpg|Post-facelift model (rear)
</gallery>
{{clear}}

=== 1987 ===
E24s produced after June 1987 were fitted with ellipsoid headlamps, as per the recently introduced [[BMW E32|E32 7 Series]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.e-24.ru/eng/theory/evolution/1987/ |title=Model Evolution - 1987 |website=www.e-24.ru |access-date= 24 October 2010}}</ref> The front and rear bumpers and spoilers were redesigned to use a single design worldwide<ref>{{cite web|title=6' E24 635CSi Front Spoiler M Technic|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=5331-EUR-12_1977_E24_BMW_635CSi&diagId=51_0495#51719057962 |website=www.realoem.com |access-date=7 May 2017}}</ref> (prior to this, models sold in North America used a different design from the rest of the world).

The 635CSi engine was updated to the higher compression [[BMW M30#M30B35|M30B35]],<ref>{{cite web|title=6' E24 635CSi Volume air flow sensor|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/en/showparts?id=5372-EUR-02-1989-E24-BMW-635CSi&diagId=13_0167|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=22 April 2017}}</ref> which resulted in a power increase of {{convert|19|kW|hp|0|abbr=on}} for engines with catalytic converters.
{{clear right}}

== North American and Japanese models ==

The extended bumpers required by U.S. crash legislation resulted in U.S. models having an increase in length of approximately {{convert|180|mm|in|1|abbr=on}} to {{convert|4923|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}. Although other markets offered multiple E24 models, in North America only one model was available at any given time (aside from the M6).

=== 630CSi ===
The 6 series was released in the US as the 630CSi in March 1977, with the 633CSi replacing it during the 1978 model year.<ref name=scimp119/> The US market version received larger bumpers and side marker lights, as required by federal legislation. The 630CSi is powered by a fuel-injected version of the 630CS engine. This 3.0 litre engine produces {{cvt|176|hp|kW|0}} and {{cvt|185|lbft|Nm|0}}.

=== 633CSi ===
The 633CSi arrived in USA in September 1977 (for the 1978 model year),<ref>{{cite web |title=BMW 633CSi - E24 Market |url=https://www.classic.com/m/bmw/6-series/e24/633csi/ |website=www.classic.com |access-date=2 October 2021}}</ref> replacing the original 630.<ref>{{cite web|title=6'E24 630 CSi - model selection|url=http://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/select?product=P&archive=1&series=E24&body=Cou&model=630CSi&market=USA&prod=19770900|website=www.realoem.com|access-date=11 May 2017}}</ref> In United States/Japan specification, the 633CSi was powered by a {{Convert|181|hp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} version of the [[BMW M30#M30B32|M30B32]] engine. Output later dropped to {{Convert|174|hp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}}.

In September 1980 (1981 [[model year]]), the manual transmission for US cars was upgraded from a 4-speed to a 5-speed. A 3-speed automatic transmission was optional.<ref name=RT81a>{{cite journal | journal = Road & Track | issue = Jan-Feb 1981 | title = Road Test Annual & Buyer's Guide 1981 | page = 84 }}</ref>

In September 1982, North American and Japanese market models received a major facelift, as per the models sold in the rest of the world.

=== 635CSi ===
[[File:BMW 635CSi.jpg|thumb|right|635CSi (U.S. version)]]

In November 1984, for the 1985 model year, the 633CSi was replaced by the 635CSi for the North American Market.<ref name=importedcars>{{cite book |last= Covello|first= Mike|date= 2002|title= Standard Catalog of Imported Cars 1946-2002|url= {{Google books|YHItfpqsZHkC|Standard Catalog of Imported Cars 1946-2002|plainurl=yes}} |publisher= Krause Publications|isbn= 0-87341-605-8}}</ref> This model uses the [[BMW M30#M30B34|M30B34]] engine, which produces {{cvt|182|hp|kW|0}} and {{cvt|214|lbft|0}} at 4,000 rpm. An L6 "luxury edition" version of the 635CSi was available in North America for the 1987 model year. The L6 featured leather headliner and trim and an automatic gearbox.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://jalopnik.com/328837/1987-bmw-l6|title=1987 BMW L6|last=Martin|first=Murilee|work=Jalopnik|access-date=2017-08-29|language=en-US}}</ref>

In 1988 the engine was upgraded to the [[BMW M30#M30B35|M30B35]]. This engine has a capacity of 3.4 Litres (despite the model code and the "3.5" inscribed on the intake manifold) and produces {{convert|208|hp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} and {{convert|225|lbfft|abbr=on|order=flip}} torque. This upgraded engine resulted in [[catalytic converter]] equipped United States models offering similar performance to European models.<ref name=importedcars/> [[self-leveling suspension|Self-leveling rear suspension]] was added to the 635CSi and M6 features list.<ref name=importedcars/>

=== M6 ===
[[File:1988 BMW M6-US.jpg|thumb|right|M6 (U.S. version)]]

In 1987, North America and Japan received their equivalent of the M635CSi, called simply the M6. The main difference between the M6 and its European counterpart, is that the [[BMW S38|S38]] engine is used instead of the [[BMW M88#M88/3|M88]]. Compared with the M88, the S38 has a [[catalytic converter]], the compression ratio reduced to 9.8:1, a double row timing chain, a shorter [[camshaft]] duration and a simplified exhaust manifold. The power output for the North American E24 M6 is {{Convert|256|hp|kW|0|abbr=on}}, which is {{convert|30|hp|kW|0|abbr=on|order=flip}} less than the European M635CSi.<ref name="m-registry"/>

Standard equipment on the United States market M6 cars included many features which were optional on the European cars, including heated power seats, self-leveling rear suspension, beverage chiller (cooled by an air-conditioning system) between the rear seats, air-conditioning vents for rear seat occupants, sunshade for rear occupants and an 8-speaker premium sound system.<ref>{{cite web|title=1987 BMW M6 - Archived Road Test Page 2|url=http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/1987-bmw-m6-road-test-review-the-m6s-upgrades-page-2|website=www.caranddriver.com|access-date=13 May 2017}}</ref>

== Motorsport ==
{{more citations needed section|date=May 2017}}
[[File:BMW E24 635 CSi Grp A Works Original BMW Teile front side.JPG|thumb]]
[[File:1983 BMW 635 CSi Group A.jpg|thumb|1983 BMW 635 CSi Group A]]
In 1982, the [[European Touring Car Championship]] transitioned to Group A regulations, prompting BMW to move from the [[BMW 3.0 CSL|3.0 CSL]] to the 635 CSi. BMW Motorsport produced approximately 50 competition chassis between 1983 and 1985.<ref>{{Cite web |title=1983 BMW 635 CSi Group A {{!}} Paris 2023 |url=https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/pa23/paris/lots/r0053-1983-bmw-635-csi-group-a/1315634 |access-date=2023-02-03 |website=RM Sotheby's |language=en}}</ref>

'''Achievements in championships and series:'''
* [[European Touring Car Championship]] (Group A); 3 titles (1981, 1983 and 1986)
* [[Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft]]; 1 title (1984)
* Belgian Touring Car Championship (Group N); 1 title (1984)
* [[Australian Touring Car Championship]]; 1 title ([[1985 Australian Touring Car Championship|1985]])
* [[Australian Endurance Championship]]; 2 titles ([[1985 Australian Endurance Championship|1985]] and [[1986 Australian Endurance Championship|1986]])
* [[Australian Manufacturers' Championship]]; 1 title ([[1985 Australian Manufacturers' Championship|1985]])
* [[Better Brakes AMSCAR Series|AMSCAR Series]]; 1 title (1985)
* [[European Hill Climb Championship]]; 1 title (1985)
* [[New Zealand Touring Car Championship]]; 2 titles (1985 and 1987)
* New Zealand Benson & Hedges Saloon Car Series; 1 title (1985)
* Nissan-Mobil 500 Series ([[New Zealand]]); 1 title (1985)
* [[Japanese Touring Car Championship]]; 1 titles (1985)

'''Race wins:'''
* [[RAC Tourist Trophy]]; 2 wins (1980 and 1984)
* 4h/500&nbsp;km of [[Autodromo Nazionale Monza|Monza]]; 3 wins (1980, 1981 and 1983)
* [[Guia Race]]; 1 win (1983)
* [[Spa 24 Hours]]; 3 wins (1983, 1985 and 1986)
* [[24 Hours Nürburgring]]; 2 wins (1984 and 1985)
* [[Sandown 500]]; 1 win ([[1985 Castrol 500|1985]])

==References==
{{Reflist|30em}}

{{Commons category|BMW E24}}

{{BMW cars: 1960s to 1980s}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Bmw E24}}
[[Category:Cars introduced in 1976]]
[[Category:Cars discontinued in 1989]]
[[Category:1980s cars]]
[[Category:BMW vehicles|6 Series (E24)]]
[[Category:Grand tourers]]