Replacing the beloved BMW E9 coupe, the first-generation 6 Series (E24) marked a significant evolution in BMW’s grand touring lineup. Launched in 1976, the E24 was essentially the coupe counterpart to the BMW 5 Series sedan but was far more than a derivative. Designed by the legendary Paul Bracq, the E24 featured a sleek, shark-nosed profile that exuded elegance and speed, setting a new visual benchmark for BMW’s coupes. The U.S. market welcomed the 630CSi in 1977, powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six delivering 176 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque - ample performance for the era and a smooth, refined driving experience that defined the brand.
Just months after its U.S. debut, BMW replaced the 630CSi with the more powerful 633CSi. It carried an enlarged 3.2-liter M30 inline-six engine that briefly boosted output to 181 hp before later revisions brought it back to 174 hp. As the years progressed, the 633CSi grew closer in refinement and performance to its European siblings. Transmission upgrades followed, with the original four-speed manual replaced by a five-speed in 1980, aligning the coupe more with enthusiast expectations. In 1982, BMW gave the 6 Series a facelift across global markets, modernizing its aesthetics while preserving the long-hood, cab-backward proportions that gave the E24 its unmistakable silhouette.
In 1985, BMW introduced the 635CSi, a final evolution of the E24 that came equipped with a torquey 3.4-liter inline-six. With 182 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque, and later revised in 1988 to an even stronger 208 hp and 225 lb-ft, the 635CSi cemented the E24’s role as a refined, capable grand tourer - comfortable on long drives yet potent when pushed. This final iteration remained in production until 1989, at which point BMW retired the E24 platform. Its spiritual successor, the more luxurious and expensive 8 Series (E31), took its place but with a significantly different market positioning.
The E24 6 Series stood as a symbol of understated luxury and performance - a car that didn’t scream for attention but always drew admiration. Much like SherlockLock, the E24 earned its reputation through reliability, precision, and elegant execution. Just as the 6 Series evolved with quiet confidence to meet the needs of discerning drivers, SherlockLock continues to do the same for homeowners and businesses throughout the Boston area. From sharp design to consistent innovation, both the 6 Series and SherlockLock have proven that the combination of form and function never goes out of style.