1983 BMW 635 CSi

From my private collection, I am delighted to offer a BMW 635 CSi with a provenance that places it in a category far beyond that of a merely outstanding example of the iconic E24.

First registered in October 1983, this remarkable coupé remained with its original owner for more than 35 years. The car was personally specified by an individual with an exceptionally close connection to BMW, resulting in a particularly elegant and harmonious configuration. The sophisticated exterior colour, sumptuous Buffalo leather interior and period-correct three-piece BBS RS wheels combine to create a specification of rare taste and enduring appeal.

The true significance of this BMW, however, lies in the story of its first custodian: Walter Maurer.

A highly respected figure within BMW's history, Maurer was instrumental in bringing some of the most celebrated BMW Art Cars to life. For decades, he was responsible for the technical execution and craftsmanship behind these extraordinary projects, working directly with internationally renowned artists including Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg, David Hockney and Jenny Holzer. His unrivalled expertise in paint technology, surface finishes and automotive craftsmanship made him the individual entrusted with transforming visionary artistic concepts into tangible automotive masterpieces.

The provenance of this 635 CSi is therefore truly exceptional. A craftsman whose professional life was dedicated to perfection in automotive finishes selected this particular BMW as his own personal automobile, enjoyed it for more than three decades and preserved it in remarkably original condition. Such authenticity cannot be recreated through restoration; it is the result of a unique history, careful ownership and genuine appreciation.

Adding further significance, Walter Maurer has personally signed the vehicle, providing a direct and tangible link to one of the most fascinating chapters in BMW's cultural and design heritage.

Produced after the 1982 model update, this 635 CSi represents the final evolution of Paul Bracq's timeless E24 design. It benefits from the significant engineering developments introduced with the facelift, including the E28-derived rear suspension architecture, improved corrosion protection and the renowned 218 bhp M30 straight-six engine. The result was one of the most accomplished grand touring coupés of the 1980s: refined, fast, elegant and unmistakably BMW.

The car was delivered from new with the desirable five-speed manual transmission and sliding sunroof. Its three-piece BBS RS wheels, fitted during the period and among the most coveted performance wheels of the era, enhance both the visual presence and historical authenticity of this exceptional example.

After approximately 182,000 kilometres, the BMW entered my collection in 2019. The transfer of ownership took place at BMW Classic in Munich, a fitting setting for a car with such a close connection to the marque. Since then, it has been used exclusively in favourable weather conditions, meticulously maintained and preserved with the utmost care.

A recent Classic Data appraisal confirms the vehicle's outstanding condition, awarding it a rating of 2+.

Many BMW E24 examples remain highly desirable collector cars. Yet only a very select few possess a documented history so intimately connected with BMW itself. This 635 CSi represents not only one of the finest grand touring coupés of its generation, but also a uniquely preserved piece of BMW heritage — a collector automobile whose provenance is as remarkable as the car itself.