Segment:
High-performance luxury grand tourer
Target Audience:
BMW M6 (E24) owners, classic car enthusiasts, independent mechanics specializing in BMW
Competitors Era:
Porsche 911, Ferrari 365 GT4 BB (and successors), Lamborghini Countach
Manual Advantage:
Vehicle-specific, factory-level detail for all repairs, no generic information
Convenience:
Single PDF for ease of use, printable pages, digital storage avoids wear and tear
Powertrain:
Engine (M88/3), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Engine Control System
Drivetrain:
Clutch, Manual Transmission (Getrag 265), Transfer Case (if applicable, though unlikely for E24 M6), Drive Shaft, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering (including Power Steering), Brakes (including Parking Brake), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Starting & Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Instruments, Meters, Audio/Visual, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Horn, Multiplex/CAN Communication (likely early forms or pre-CAN)
Body Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Locks, Windows/Glass/Mirrors, Interior Trim, Seats, Seatbelts, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (if applicable, unlikely for 1980), Engine Hood
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Engine Rebuilds, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension & Brake Repairs, Electrical System Repairs
Specifications:
Torque Values, Clearances, Fluid Types & Capacities, Electrical Specifications, Emission Control Specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, from routine maintenance to complete overhaul and diagnostics, identical to dealer technician manuals
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
3453 cc (3.5 Liters)
Horsepower:
286 PS (282 hp / 210 kW) at 6500 rpm
Torque:
333 Nm (245 lb-ft) at 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (BMW Ignition System)
Cooling System Type:
Water-cooled, pressurized
Crash Test Ratings:
No standardized crash test ratings available for this era in the modern sense.
Brakes:
Power-assisted disc brakes (front and rear), ABS (optional or standard on later models, likely not 1980)
Suspension:
Independent front suspension (MacPherson struts), Semi-trailing arm rear suspension
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering, potentially power steering
Audio System:
Original BMW branded radio/cassette player, likely with limited features by modern standards.
ABS:
Optional on some models, not standard across the board for 1980.
Cruise Control:
Mechanical cruise control system
Connectivity Features:
N/A by modern definition; focused on mechanical and basic electrical systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual; typically a high-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil like SAE 15W-50 or 20W-50 for older engines, or 10W-40/10W-50 depending on climate.
Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual; likely a GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil for the Getrag 265. Specific BMW part number would be in the manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on original specification.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms, around windows, sunroof area (if equipped).
Engine M88 Specifics:
Timing chain tensioner wear, valve adjustments, potential head gasket issues with age.
Fuel System E24 M6:
Injector issues, fuel pump reliability, fuel pressure regulator
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, deteriorating connectors, fuse box issues.
Bmw Motorsport Division:
Developed by BMW M GmbH, a direct lineage from racing technology.
E24 Platform:
Based on the BMW 6 Series (E24) coupe platform, renowned for its elegant styling and driving dynamics.
M6 Introduction:
The M635CSi (European market) and M6 (North American market) versions brought motorsport-derived performance to the E24 chassis.
Production Years E24 M6:
1978-1989 (M635CSi/M6 variants)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
Classic Car Status:
Highly regarded as a collectible and iconic BMW sports coupe.
Performance Reviews Era:
Praised for its powerful engine, sophisticated handling, and luxurious GT capabilities by automotive journalists of its time.
Dealership Use:
This manual is explicitly stated as being the same one used by dealership technicians.
