interested in a bmw 6 series. a 1983 model. what problems should i expect?

Answer 1

Don't listen to Phish. He's thinking of the modern 6 series and not the classic you are referring to.

First thing to look out for is rust on the front wheel arches. They all go there. I have seen some awful examples driving around with gaping holes in the wings. It's not too difficult to get them replaced, but if its easy to do then why didn't the previous owner do it? What else have they skimped on?

The engines are bullet proof if maintained properly. Because of the age of the car, it is worth while looking out for some obvious things. Wheel bearings will probably be on their last legs, as will suspension bushes and possibly brake lines. All are repairable, and will probably add a good few years to the life of the car.

The interior will show its age as well. The side bolster on the drivers seat will probably be worn (mine was ripped) and there may be holes in the carpet beneath the pedals if it doesn't have mats.
Check for water getting in. The rear driverside footwell was swimming with water in mine.

Check the wheels carefully. The 6 Series originally came with metric sized wheels which means that its nigh on impossible to find tyres for them. Try to buy one with aftermarket (allbeit BMW) wheels to solve the problem.

Other things to look out for are cracked front fog lamps. All BMWs of that age have this problem because they are set so low.
Make sure the doors are hanging straight. They tend to drop slightly over time but are very easy to adjust.

If your '83 model doesn't work out, but you still want a 6er, then look for a late 80's Highline version with the leather dash and electric seats etc. If 220BHP isn't enough then a 286BHP M635CSi is the ultimate 6er and still rated as one of the best M cars around, but it might cost you a couple of grand more.

Good luck with the car. Don't listen to people slagging off BMW drivers. Most of them don't know what a 80s 6 Series looks like anyway! Its a classic car that can easily live with todays cars!

I'd have another one tomorrow if I could afford to put petrol in it.

Answer 2

The 628 is a motoring Icon, the benchmark for BMW, an appreciating and practical classic, and parts are easily found through owners clubs.

There are many good examples left with low mileage, often due to the fuel economy as you would expect, most have been pampered in a nice warm garage somewhere. The 635 is more of a weekend toy. The M635CSI is very sought after classic and very good, it will only go up in value, make sure it has leather.

Have you looked at a mercedes 500SEC coupe?

Answer 3

It's a 23 year old car so the first check should be for excessive rust. Mechanically BMW's are normally bulletproof, you should also check that all electrics work and that their is no bits of trim missing or damaged as good replacements may be hard to find.

Answer 4

The biggest problem would be people thinking you are a wanker for wanting to own a BMW 6-series.

Answer 5

This model has a history of twisting the cylinder head, so always look for signs of headgasket failure.

Answer 6

Just about everything - 1983 ! ! !