This Series 6 is often overlooked these days, but we loved it in 1976
Tested on 16.10.76
In the wake of the impressive BMW 3.0 CSL Coupe, the firm added space, comfort and performance when creating the durable and long-loved BMW 6 Series.
Drive came from the 3.3Li saloon’s fuel-injected 3210cc straight-six, delivering identical power and slightly more torque than the lighter 178kg 3.0 CSL coupe.
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Engine responsiveness was superb, allowing you to cruise up top at 30mph, but also give vigorous acceleration without needing to downshift and cruise comfortably to 105mph. The economy improved the CSL by a total of 3.9 mpg.
The four-speed manual was light but positive in action, but reverse was hard to engage and the clutch was heavy.
The worm and roller steering was sufficiently precise with discreet electric assistance. Body roll was well contained, understeer could be curbed with the throttle, and power slides were easily maintained. The relatively firm ride shook a little around town but picked up speed, aside from a few rear floats. The all-round vented discs were strong but prone to binding.
The luxuriously finished cabin was very comfortable, even for two rear passengers.
For: Performance, economy, handling and steering
Versus: Price, firm ride, rear float, tricky reverse
What happened next
The E24-gen 6 series lasted until 1989, by which time we had seen the 184 hp 628 CSi, the 220 hp 635 CSi and the M635 CSi which used the 3.5 liter straight-six from the M1 supercar to deliver 286 hp, hit 60 mph in 6.0 seconds and hit 158 mph. The Series 6 badge was not seen again until the E63-gen model in 2003. It is now in its fourth generation under the guise of the Gran Turismo, but was withdrawn from sale in the UK in 2020.
Information sheet
Price £13,980 Engine 6 cylinders in line, 3210cc, gasoline Power 200hp at 5500rpm Couple 210 lb ft at 4250 rpm 0-60mph 8.1s 0-100mph 21.9s quarter mile standing 14.9sec at 83mph Top speed 131mph Economy 20.6mpg
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Source: www.autocar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2022-06-06 04:01:24
