# 1977-1979 BMW 630CSi The BMW 630CSi represents the E24 generation's entry-level offering, featuring a 3.0-liter inline-six producing 176-184 horsepower wrapped in Marcello Gandini's elegant shark-nose coupe design. This grand tourer prioritized refinement over raw performance, offering smooth highway cruising and understated luxury. Enthusiasts appreciate its timeless styling and build quality but note it feels underpowered compared to the later 633CSi and M6. The 630CSi is somewhat overshadowed by its more potent siblings, making it the "forgotten" E24. Today, these early examples appeal to vintage BMW collectors seeking affordable entry into classic coupe ownership. They're ideal for casual weekend drives and car shows rather than spirited driving. Values remain modest, though finding unmolested examples with rust-free bodies and functioning Bosch fuel injection grows increasingly challenging.
The BMW 630CSi requires premium fuel and features complex Bosch fuel injection prone to issues. Parts are increasingly scarce and expensive, requiring specialty sourcing. Maintenance costs are high due to aged rubber components, cooling system weaknesses, and limited technician expertise. However, the M30 engine is generally robust when properly maintained. Insurance is typically reasonable for a classic.
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