Project BMW 635 home page: Our shed

Date: 29.06.2009

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635 home page

Catch up with the progress on our Euro express

Project BMW 635 home page

Project BMW 635

Yep, we've jumped in to yet another money pit, this time a 1978 635CSI, known in BMW-speak as an E24.

This is a very early right-hand drive example -- number 24 -- which originally came from the UK, fitted with the rare five-speed Getrag dog-leg gearbox. The car was in fair shape when we bought it in Brisbane in 2009, but was well and truly due for some attention.

Keep an eye out for our updates...

Part 1 -- Look Ma, a new toy!;

Part 1 video (July 2009)

Part 2 -- Getting a roadworthy;

Part 2 video, including what to look for in a classic Bimmer;

Part 2 video extra - getting the seats made (Sept 2009)

Video - Re-skinning the dash at the Dashboard Doctor (Jan 2010)

Part 3 - Getting it sorted

Email contact: guy.allen@traderclassifieds.com.au

Six series links

Wikipedia page

Big Coupe -- general info
Sharknose -- good early pics
German site: good for VIN & production numbers
Clipser video – 635 at Bathurst
UK site – private owner with useful info
US-based 635 forum
YouTube Wheeler Dealers 635 quick resto
Russia-based 635 site
BMW VIN decoder – Japan

Workshops we used

IDB Automotive, Richmond (Vic) for general repairs, tel (03) 9428 5446

Unique Auto Interiors for new leather seats and gearshift boot

BASIC SPECIFICATIONS

1978 BMW 635CSI

Engine: two-valve M30 in-line six, liquid cooled, L-Jetronic injection
Bore x stroke: 93.4 x 84
Displacement: 3453cc
Compression ratio: 9.3:1
Power: 218hp @ 5200rpm
Torque: 224ft-lb @ 4000rpm
Gearbox: Getrag dog-leg 5-speed
Final drive: rear limited slip diff
Front suspension: independent struts
Rear suspension: independent semi-trailing arms
Brakes: dual circuit ventilated discs
Weight: approx 1500kg
Top speed: 225km/h
0-100km/h: 7.6sec
Price when new: Au$30,000-plus

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