1987 BMW M6 at Bonhams Amelia Island

WAAAAAAAAY too high for that car.

 

Having owned a Euro BMW M635csi I can assure you that a US model is not that great at all. And this one is not worth the money IMHO. The US models are much heavier, fully luxury cars more so than a GT. Where the Euro models had about 50 HP more, different cam, different valves, gear ratios, transmission, different headers/exhaust system and less weight. They are a PITA to upkeep and expensive. So much so that I jumped on the Ferrari band wagon after owning one. That being said I owned it for 11 years, loved it and wish I never sold it.

 

I sold an 88 M6 with 57k miles at Mecums Kissimmee this year for 41k before fees. These cars are starting to be appreciated and concerning upkeep I don't agree with a previous posting

 

They are notoriously known for Head Gasket issues, bad transmission, in US models AC systems is known for going out etc. etc. etc. The list goes on but you may have been a lucky one. I was a BMW fan, started with a 3.0csi, 530i and last was the Euro M635csi, these days not so much.

 

I had a 1986 635csi, which was a great car. But you can pick up one for $10K.

The car started to come apart at 100K miles. M6 was no different.

 

The market for these 1st generation M-Cars has been steadily increasing over the past 5 years. Quality examples continue to sell for more money every year.

This 1988 US M6 Zinno/Natural just sold for $66,000:
https://www.leakecar.com/vehicle/25842/1988-BMW-M6/

 

I have a new in the box set of upgraded valve springs for an M-6. Mine didn't have them (Euro) but being part of the M club had them sent to me. Make me an offer I cant refuse
Got to me after I rebuilt the head (valve guides and head gasket).
No longer have the car.

 

These cars are increasing in value quite quickly. Obviously they euro cars are quicker and more desirable, but of the US cars the 88 is more desirable over the 87 because of the world bumpers that are color matched.

I was watching the car last month that sold for over $70,000 including fees at the leak auction. It was very clean and these cars are being more and more appreciated, maybe being pulled up by e30 M3. Collectors are starting to realize they want to add it to their collection so low mileage extremely original ones are going to have a much higher markup then even completely nice examples but with higher miles.

The miles on the two mentioned above are a complete turnoff for any collector, regardless of the condition. Therefore I think $25k to $35k is fair money right now. However if it had 8k miles like one that sold last year here on Fchat for $85k IIRC, then $75k sounds right.
A huge jump but take a look, you won't find much I the middle.

 

Clearly the E30 M3 reigns supreme for the old bimmers. All great cars, but very costly to maintain. Again in the long picture it's not that bad and definitely cheaper to maintain that a Porsche or Ferrari from the same time period. Looks like a nice car

 

In my BMW experiences, the mileage matters mostly because it typically is a function of all condition aspects. There isn't an M6 out there with 100K miles of enjoyment that will come close to a 25K mile example with quality owners/caretakers behind the wheel of both. Once all the low mileage survivor cars are gobbled up, all the market is left with is higher mileage rejuvenated/restored examples that will be a #2 condition car on their best day (most are #4's). Original low mileage 1st generation M-Cars are still available if you are willing to part with the right amount of money. Great examples will not need engine rebuilds and paint/body work unlike most 40-60 year old collector cars, thus why mileage still matters.

 

I'm just now putting the finishing touches on my 1987 M6 Restoration Project.
125,000 miles.
I've put on:
Turner Motorsports Performance Chip
European headers
Eibach suspension kit
E36 Wheels (with spacers)
Custom built exhaust system
Restored & upgraded interior
Short shift kit
Restored brakes (stock is awesome)
New radiator
Working AC - front and rear
Fiberglass body kit (bumper covers & side skirts)

Sure we've had to fix a few leaks and replace some gaskets, but the motor is solid and she runs strong. I've personally run down the interstate at 145 and she was happy as a clam!

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After owning a pristine 11,000 mile Diamond Black E30 M3 10 years ago....I'm crying my eyes out....I'm glad to see the M6 get its due. Having owned 7 2002's and the E30, seeing prices go through the roof.....please tell my why? I won't be surprised to see the first generation M6 finally command over 15K. The first generation M5 was a bargain for years(10-15K), now look at them! I will still agree with the first couple of posts. Too much money for the hi mileage ones, but low...low mileage, I agree will start to be hard to find which will drive those prices up.

 

Sold $20,900 including buyer's premium.
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Interesting, the M635csi sold for 24 & change. It's a better car IMO as it is Euro spec, but the values are quite close. Nice to see the 6 on the up...

 

Someone got a decent deal, this is without knowing much about the car. May have to dump some $$ into it to make it right for that kind of money IMHO. This is a US M6, I use to love Beemers and know them well, they are not the same has a Euro M635csi. Those are worth some serious bucks and are worth it.