1988 BMW E24 635CSi

Highlights

• Fine project car, ready for recommissioning
• Genuine BMW front arches fitted during current ownership
• Majority service history available from the 1990s to 2010+

The Appeal

The BMW E24 really ticked it all. A well-behaved, easy-to-handle car that felt distinguished yet perky, with practical seating space and, under the 635CSi guise, fast on its feet. Pairing BMW's refined 3.4-litre inline-six with a striking pillarless coupé body, it's a particularly handsome machine, well worthy of its reputation.

This 1988 example has been garage-stored and is eagerly awaiting its new owner. During the current ownership, genuine BMW front arches were sourced and fitted, replacing some of the E24's trouble spots, while the original factory stereo and speaker covers are included alongside the currently fitted aftermarket sound system.

This E24 has been standing for approximately two years and will require recommissioning. The engine starts but runs roughly, and the vendor believes mechanical work would be needed before the car could be driven reliably. It's a handsome prospect, ready and waiting for restoration and a return to the road.

Key Information

• Mileage: 156,400 miles (unverified)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT expired in 2025
• Technical specs: 3,430cc inline-six petrol, four-speed automatic
• Paperwork: majority service history available, with files covering the 1990s to 2010+

The Detail

• Genuine BMW front arches sourced directly from BMW and fitted during current ownership
• Sunroof seal replaced with a genuine BMW item
• New battery fitted
• Vehicle has been standing for approximately two years without being driven
• Engine starts but runs rough and jittery; the vendor believes engine work is needed for reliable driving
• Squeaking noise when turning, believed to be caused by the period of standing
• Paint peeling around the rear number plate area, requiring attention
• Small rust spots visible on both sides between the window arches and engine bay
• The vendor describes the interior as being in good condition
• Aftermarket sound system fitted; original factory stereo and speaker covers are included
• Electric headrests are not working
• Electric headlight wipers are not working
• First setting of windscreen wipers operates erratically; second setting works correctly
• AC blows air but the temperature control does not function
• A previous owner installed a switch in the passenger glovebox intended to control AC temperature, but it does not appear to work
• A kill switch has been installed, hidden in the ashtray
• Wheels fitted are not factory items; the spare tyre is the original factory unit
• The sunroof tilt option does not work, however the opening of the sunroof works perfectly without any issues
• The factory boot mechanism is not functioning so a singular boot strut was placed on the right hand side which allows it to function properly

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