# 1984-1989 BMW M635CSi The BMW M635CSi (known as M6 in North America) represents BMW M's first luxury grand tourer, pairing the elegant E24 6-Series coupe with the legendary 3.5-liter M88/S38 inline-six producing 282 horsepower. This hand-built engine, shared with the M5, delivered 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds—remarkable for the era. Enthusiasts praise its silky-smooth power delivery, precise handling, and distinctive shark-nose styling. It's famous for its sophisticated "business in front, party in back" character and remains one of the most collectible M cars. However, it's infamous for complex, expensive maintenance and aging electrical systems. Values have surged recently, making it primarily suited for collectors and enthusiasts seeking weekend driving experiences rather than daily transport. Well-maintained examples offer an analog driving experience increasingly rare in modern BMWs.
The M635CSi demands premium maintenance: valve adjustments every 15k miles, expensive Motronic system repairs, and costly clutch replacements. Parts scarcity drives up costs. The S38 engine is robust but requires meticulous care. Insurance is high due to collectible status and performance capability. Rust remediation can be expensive, particularly in floor pans and shock towers.
Affordability Calculator
We have preconfigured our calculator for this vehicle
Why Use This Calculator?
Unlike calculators from banks or dealerships that may encourage overspending, our tool provides neutral, conservative estimates based on proven financial principles. Whether you're financing or paying cash, we help you understand what you can truly afford.
For Loan Financing:
- •Safe Range: Follows the , ensuring you can comfortably afford your car payment
- •Stretch Range: A moderate approach that balances affordability with your goals
- •Lender Max: What banks typically approve, but may strain your budget
For Cash Purchases:
- •Conservative: Uses 5% of net worth, maintaining strong financial reserves
- •Safe: Uses , following the recommended guideline
- •Stretch: Uses 15% of net worth, for when you want to prioritize the car