1988 BMW 635CSI
ENGINE 3430cc/6-cyl/ohc POWER 217bhp@5700rpm TORQUE 232lb ft@4000rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 140mph 0-60MPH 7.9 sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 15-30mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, four-speed auto MOT 12 months on sale ODOMETER 133,116 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The car drives brilliantly and the smooth, straight-six engine feels powerful and responsive. It’s happy to cruise but provides effortless grunt when required, all the while maintaining a healthy and steady temperature. Changes from the automatic gearbox are positive and fluid, the steering is well-weighted with no slack in the system, vibrations through the wheel or pulling to either side. The brake pedal could be a little firmer but the brakes themselves work well and bring the car to a stop without drama. Nothing feels loose or tired and there are no knocks or rattles when driving.
BODYWORK CHECK
This E24 has undergone extensive body restoration work in the past with any rust removed completely and replaced with new metal. This refresh included new sills, re-fabricated wheel arches, wings and inners removed and treated, plus replacement metalwork around the windscreen, indicators and rear lights. The car was then treated to a full windows-out
EXTERIOR
INTERIOR
MECHANICALS
Fully serviced engine performs well re-spray in original Royal Blue. The underside appears to be in similar shape with no sign of damage or poor repairs. The car is fitted with non-standard 16-inch BMW alloy wheels shod with Avon ZV5 tyres with decent tread but the originals are included in the sale.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
Being a Highline, this 635Csi’s interior is swathed in Lotus White nappa leather that is clean throughout. There is some patina to the gear lever and handbrake as well as some cracking – mainly to the driver’s seat – but there is no damage to any of the trim aside from a missing knob on one of the heater control sliders. The centre console is slightly loose and
the boot struts can no longer support the boot lid, but the carpets are in good shape and all of the equipment works, including the electric seats.
UNDER THE BONNET
The recently serviced engine – work included oil and coolant flushes as well as a new thermostat and spark plugs – runs and drives exactly as BMW intended. The brakes have also been serviced and fitted with new pads (the brake pad light came on during our test drive, though this will be rectified before sale) and the steering gear has been overhauled with new tie-rods. The engine bay is clean and tidy with no fluid leaks to speak of.
THE CCW VIEW
Many a 635CSI has succumbed to rust but this one was caught before it was too late and given a new lease of life thanks to a top body refresh. The mechanicals are up to scratch, too, so the car is in fine fettle, ready to be driven away by its lucky new owner to enjoy many more miles of happy motoring or taken to shows. Dale Vinten
Restored body All rust removed
Electrics overhauled and functioning perfectly