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BMW 6 Series vs M635 CSi

BMW says its new 640d will be the best-selling 6 Series ever. How does it match up against legendary eighties M635 CSi?

BMW 6 Series vs M635 CSi

Photos: Pete Gibson November 2011

Believe it or not, the new diesel version of the BMW 6 Series is predicted to account for an incredible 93 per cent of the model’s UK sales. The company expects the 640d to be the most successful version yet, and it’s easy to see why.

Here’s a car that can sprint from 0-60mph in only 5.4 seconds, yet return claimed economy of up to 51.4mpg. Low emissions and a four-seater interior packed with gadgets do the rest.

The newcomer is in a class of one, because none of its rivals offers the option of a diesel engine. As a result, nothing on sale today comes close to matching its mixture of talents, so we decided to look to the past instead.

In 1986, the BMW M635 CSi set the benchmark for luxury GT performance cars. It was fitted with the same 3.5-litre engine as the legendary M1 supercar and its combination of blistering pace, rear-wheel-drive handling, muscular styling and cosseting comfort gave it cult appeal. And after 25 years, it has become a bona-fide classic.

The new diesel 6 Series may be faster and more economical than its potent petrol ancestor, but can it really live up to the legend?

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3 Comments

Other way around...

...how does the old car live up to the 640d. In the styling stakes, the original was a classic courtesy its' shark-nose, but after that there is no contest. This 640d makes my 635d look positively thirsty. It is a remarkable feat of engineering and shows again how BMW are leaving Audi (and M-B) standing in the engine technology stakes. This car is a GT ie not a sportscar and is totally fit for purpose ie north to southern France on one tank, more torque than an M6, load and seating capacity for 4 adults in an ambience only 1st class Eurostar or airline passengers can expect and finally all under the key 225 g/kg emission limit. No surprise BMW expect 93% of sales to go to this model - why would you buy any other version. One caveat - buy ex-demo model with 5 year service pack and options built in to minimise initial depreciation.

By reddo on 3 November, 2011, 8:12am

Other way around... redeux

Reddo, well put, my friend! Your remarks are spot on. However, I will say stylistically, the original M6 is a MUCH better looking car, even today, than the mid-series change-over design of this new model. Granted, they are trying to eliminate the god awfrul Bangle-butt design as fast as they can, but the latest rounds of BMWs are as generic-looking as Toyota Camrys these days. I'm sure that will change and they will gain their unique identity once again, but not fast enough for my taste.

By mcrosson on 6 November, 2011, 6:03am

Predecessor looks the more special and desirable.

I still can't believe how good the first generation E24 6 Series looks!even by today's standards! It's testamony to the genius and brillance of French car designer Paul Bracq. The dashboard and cockpit especially, looks much nicer and better quality than this latest generation. I think it shows in a way, what the car industry is lacking right now, and that is really talented Designers with taste, class and experience. Design Mediocrity is the norm at the moment I'm afraid to say.

By Kevin1982 on 8 November, 2011, 11:04pm

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BMW M635 CSi front cornering

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Facts and Figures

Verdict

An impressive debut – the 640d’s new diesel engine, long-haul comfort and luxurious cabin all make an impression. Not only is it faster, cheaper to run and nearly twice as economical as the M635 CSi, it also has a dazzling array of technology and safety equipment. It’s no lightweight, yet with the optional Adaptive Drive dynamics, it’s a remarkable machine.

But so is the M635 CSi. No matter how good the 640d’s engine is, it can’t match the spine-tingling soundtrack and pin-sharp responses of the old timer’s straight-six powerplant. Sure, its handling isn’t up to modern standards, but the M635 CSi is utterly engaging to drive.

Which is better? As they’re from different eras, direct comparisons are pointless, but what the 640d does demonstrate is how much progress has been made in the last 25 years. We’d love to have both cars on our driveway.

1. BMW 640d
The 6 Series Coupe is better than ever, especially in diesel form. Its effortless ability to cover big mileages is peerless in this sector of the market, and the phenomenal performance of its twin-turbo engine means that even petrol-loving diehards won’t be left feeling short-changed.

2. BMW M635 CSi
There's no denying the sense of occasion and nostalgia that comes attached to a car like the M635 CSi, even if you weren’t around to see it first time. Driving one is an intoxicating experience and as one of the first BMWs to wear the M badge, it deserves a special place in automotive history.
 
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