Tracing its roots back to the early 20th Century, the Bavarian Motor Works is one of the oldest and best-regarded car, motorcycle, and engine manufacturers in the World. During its long and illustrious history, BMW has managed to create some of the most desirable automobiles of all time, among them the pre-war 328 and post-war 507 models, many of which have now become corner stones in prominent car collections all over the globe.
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Always putting an emphasis on performance, BMW literally created the market for compact sport sedans with the 2002tii in the late 1960s. In the early 1970s it was the BMW 3.0CSL, dubbed "Batmobile", ruling unlimited-speed roads and tracks worldwide. Between 1977 and 1991, the new E24 6-Series, legitimate successor of the legendary E9 Coupé, has become the Grand Touring car for connoisseurs looking for the ultimate driving machine.
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Featuring BMW's revered inline-six engine, equipped with the BOSCH Motronic fuel management system, the CSi made a smooth transition from ultra-luxury GT to much-desired collectible. NOW is the time to buy, as prices for exceptional models are going to increase substantially very soon. Since the vast majority of these magnificent Coupés are now over 20 years old (and thus eligible for classic car insurance), it is most important for the serious enthusiast to find a car that:
- never suffered from any rust damage
- never was involved in an accident
- features a documented, low mileage
- and comes with full service history
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The 1984 BMW 633CSi Coupé presented here, VIN *WBAEB7408E6728508*, is one of just 3,092 examples officially imported to the U.S. and we firmly believe that it must be one of the finest automobiles of its kind in existence. Sold new on October 23, 1984 at Gregg Motors in Santa Barbara, California, to a wealthy Ojai architect, the car has never left the Golden State.
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As you may imagine, a purebred high-performance machine like this one requires religious commitment to servicing by the book to always remain in top condition. Deferred maintenance will haunt owners sooner or later.
It's not very often that you'll find a 24 year-old car that comes with every single service record since day one; this one is such a rare bird. The original owner kept his Coupé for six years, traveling 32,575 miles and spending $1,638.00 on maintenance; all receipts are included. The second owner--a Santa Barbara resident--continued the routine for the next 18 years, adding a mere 13,080 miles to the odometer (less than 750 miles annually), spending $9,973.00 for service and consumables, an amount that includes the purchase of an ACS suspension kit and a set of BBS light alloy wheels.
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The car's rare and very attractive metallic burgundy (Burgunderrot) finish looks stunning from all angles. Shortly after purchasing the car, the second owner wanted a few minor paint scratches and door dings taken care of by a professional shop in Goleta; the initital estimate of $549.00 is included. One month and $6,498.00 later, the car had been refinished to perfection.
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Almost two decades have passed since, and apart from some very minor imperfections such as small rock chips, there are no bubbles, dents, scrapes, or any other boo-boos worth losing sleep over.
One could rightfully label this CSi to be in show condition!
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One of the car's most appealing factory options is the large, sliding steel sunroof which smoothly opens and closes at the touch of a button.
Let the sunshine in!
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Originally, many BMWs--like selected Citroens and Ferraris of the era--came with unique wheels to accommodate metric-size TRX tires made only by Michelin. Since the metric tire went the way of Betamax and Billy Beer within just a few years, most vehicle owners have switched to standard-size wheels and tires a long time ago.
This example comes with beautiful, unblemished, period German BBS 16x7" RZ4 light alloy wheels, fitted with excellent PIRELLI P7000 Super Sport high performance radials of the dimension P225/50-ZR16 all around.
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Let's open the hood and take a good look.
Literally tootbrush-clean, the engine bay presents itself breathtakingly original with all factory lables and stickers beautifully preserved and gold factory cad-plating that looks like it's 2, not 24 years old.
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The big inline-six is one of the finest engines in the World. It is healthy as an ox, with superb compression on all cylinders. No smoke, oil leaks, or untoward noises spoil the favorable first impression. We had a full service performed and a new battery installed.
Let's have a look inside now!
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Popular options on this CSi include air conditioning, full leather interior, power seats, power door locks, power windows, power sunroof, power steering and brakes, as well as a fantastic ZF 5-speed manual transmission.
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Beautiful dashboard features top quality German gauges and switchgear. There is absolutely no wear or tear to be found; everything looks showroom new, radiating functional luxury. Audio entertainment is very ably handled by a high-end NAKAMICHI CD-35 stereo.
BMW's "Check Control" confirms that all lights work perfectly, and that levels of engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid are up to specs. Cool! Orange, aircraft-style instrument lighting is an original BMW trait, by the way.
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Among the most comfortable seats ever conceived for a Grand Touring automobile, these works of art are infinitely adjustable via console-mounted switches. Since this low-mileage example of BMW's finest has led such a sheltered life, the perl gray leather presents itself in superb, unmarked condition, still supple and aromatic.
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We don't think anybody has ever occupied the rear passenger compartment; it looks absolutely perfect and provides ample space for two adults.
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Ready for a test drive?
Sure you are, but before we take off, there are two more areas to inspect: the trunk and the undercarriage.
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Suprisingly, perhaps, the Bimmer's fully carpeted trunk provides plenty of space.
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Left side pocket contains factory tire jack; unused spare--with "like new" cover rests below the trunk floor. Right side pocket contains power antenna. Everything here is in absolutely mindboggling, "perfect" condition.
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Since the early days BMWs offered the most amazing tool kits. This one is not only 100% complete with spare bulbs and spare fuses, but--again--so perfectly preserved that we call it concours ready!
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Pristine undercarriage clearly confirms that this is a babied, always garaged, southern Calfifornia low-mileage CSi. When it's dry and sunny more than 330 days of the year, corrosion becomes a non-issue.
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July 25, 2008, when we took all of these photos, was another perfect day in Southern California. We travelled almost a hundred miles in air-conditioned comfort, examining all aspects of the big Coupé.
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The car starts, idles, runs, drives, and stops flawlessly. All the numerouos bells and whistles work perfectly. Since its front suspension--usually the E24's achilles heel--was rejuvenated with an ACS kit just and the car features the most desirable 5-speed manual transmission, we enjoyed sure-footed, sporting progress.
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Truly a modern classic, the big BMW Coupé handles today's bustling traffic with aplomb. It is drop dead georgeous, of timeless beauty, and, although "high-tech" for its time, very reliable and not overly complex to service and maintain. Parts availability and support from the factory is excellent, and you don't have to worry about corrosion on this 100% dry, rust free California CSi.
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Returning home, we understand why the 6-Series cars have inspired their own cult following. In the realm of Grand Touring Coupés, there are few cars that can hold a candle to the CSi when it comes to combining elegance and timeless looks with contemporary agility and appreciation potential.
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It's a long-held belief among classic car folks: when it comes to acquiring your dream car, buy the best, most thoroughly documented example you can find, and you'll live happily ever after. With this amazing CSi, you can fully expect to reap the long-term benefits of owning one of the few awe-inspiring Classics of the era. If you're in the market for an exceptional CSi, look no further!
Addendum:
We sold this Bimmer in August 2008 to an enthusiast in Austin, Texas.