Product Positioning:
High-performance luxury grand tourer, targeting discerning buyers seeking performance and comfort.
Key Competitors Era:
Porsche 911, Jaguar XJ-S, Mercedes-Benz SLC/SEC models.
Vehicle Usp:
Combination of BMW's renowned straight-six engine performance, luxurious coupe styling, and driving dynamics.
Value For Owner:
Enables owners to perform professional-level maintenance and repairs, saving costs and extending vehicle lifespan. Provides vehicle-specific, not generic, repair data.
Digital Advantage:
Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, eliminating the need to search multiple physical books. Printable pages for workshop use, avoiding damage to original manuals.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of the M88/3 or M90 engine (depending on market introduction of M6 variants for 1977, though M6 typically associated with later E24 models, assuming manual covers specific variants intended for this year).
Engine Control:
Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Getrag 280/5 or similar) overhaul, clutch service, drive shaft, differential, and axle maintenance.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension component diagnosis, replacement, alignment specifications, power steering system service.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, disc brake component service, parking brake system, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Complete wiring schematics, component testing, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, and accessories.
Body Chassis:
Door mechanisms, window regulators, locks, interior trim, exterior trim, glass replacement, engine hood, seats.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system service and repair, heater core, ventilation components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, tune-up procedures.
Diagnosis:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics for common issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all covered systems.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, engine timing, component tolerances.
Wiring:
Detailed wiring diagrams and schematics for all electrical circuits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Scope:
A-Z repairs, from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical troubleshooting and bodywork.
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac OS
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free downloads available)
Printability:
Fully printable; individual pages or sections can be printed.
Zoom Capability:
High-resolution images and diagrams allow for enlargement and detailed viewing.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Engine Code Typical:
M88/3 (early E24 M635CSi variant, though 1977 might refer to a precursor or specific market model. For a true 'M6' in E24, the M88/3 is definitive, though initial E24 models used the M30 engine, with 'M6' designation later applied to specific high-performance variants.)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
Approx. 3.5 Liters (3453 cc) for M88/3
Horsepower Typical:
Approx. 286 hp (DIN) for M88/3
Torque Typical:
Approx. 333 Nm (245 lb-ft) for M88/3
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection (specific to engine variant)
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, pressurized system with fan
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (13.7 US Quarts) - typical for M30/M88 series, requires confirmation for specific variant.
Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific BMW approval, typically SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate and model year updates.
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (Getrag 280/5 or similar)
Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic (ZF 3HP22) potentially available on some E24 variants, though less common on 'M' models.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific fluid type and capacity (e.g., ATF Dexron II/III for automatic, gear oil for manual).
Crash Test Data:
Era-specific safety standards, likely no standardized NCAP ratings. Focus on passive safety features of the time.
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, potentially with ABS on later E24 models or optional upgrades.
Steering:
Power-assisted recirculating ball or rack-and-pinion steering system.
Seat Belts:
Standard three-point seat belts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Period-appropriate Blaupunkt or BMW branded AM/FM stereo cassette systems.
Instrumentation:
Comprehensive analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel, oil temperature, and coolant temperature.
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system available on many models.
No Modern Connectivity:
No onboard computers, GPS, Bluetooth, or other modern connectivity features.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise interval.
Major Tune Up:
Spark plugs, ignition system check, fuel filter, air filter replacements typically every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Transmission Service:
Fluid and filter change (automatic) typically every 50,000 miles (80,000 km). Manual transmission fluid inspection/change at similar intervals.
Coolant Specification:
BMW-approved ethylene glycol coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Refer to manual for exact type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, depending on system requirements. Refer to manual for exact specification and bleed procedure.
Common Wear Items:
Fuel distributor and pump issues, vacuum leaks, cooling system component degradation (hoses, water pump), ignition component wear, suspension bushings, rust (particularly on body panels and undercarriage).
Engine Specific Concerns:
Timing chain guides on M30 engines, potential oil leaks from seals and gaskets.
Bmw Performance Legacy:
BMW's reputation for building driver-focused, high-performance vehicles, epitomized by its M division.
E24 Introduction:
The E24 chassis was introduced in 1976 as the successor to the E9 coupe, featuring BMW's iconic 'shark nose' design.
M6 Designation:
The 'M6' designation, specifically for the E24 platform, began to appear with models like the M635CSi, which featured the potent M88 engine, signifying BMW's high-performance coupe offerings.
E24 Production Years:
1976-1989
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
General Reputation:
The E24 platform, particularly the M-tuned variants, is highly regarded for its design, performance, and enduring classic status.
Collector Car Status:
Considered a desirable collector car by automotive enthusiasts and publications.
Manual Certification:
Factory Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) documentation standard.