Well, I’ve talked in previous entries about my desire to own one of these old New Six sedans. I really do love the E9 coupes, but I already have an Alfa coupe, so this would help me maintain the full convertible-coupe-sedan lineup in my little collection. And there’s something really cool about old-school European luxury – just a big engine, some firm leather seats, and no modern distractions or toys, since the car’s able to keep you entertained in a more mechanical way. I could even go for an E12 5-series, but the smog testing most of them require, plus the big bumpers, mean the ownership experience is not as easy.
So let’s start with the first car for today. The word about writing proper descriptions of a car you want someone to buy seems to be getting out. This car is exceptionally well-described (as is the other one), although I’m not sure where the seller gets the idea his car has a slant six – maybe he’d popped the hood on his Dart and had temporary confusion. The car seems to have had a lot of work done, including a recently rebuilt engine with 1983 head, full fuel system service, recent brakes and tires, dual Weber carbs and electronic ignition. This Bavaria seems to be a steal at $3300 in Sacramento, CA.
It’s got some BBS wheels off an E30 3-series, which I’d want to replace with more period wheels, like maybe some Momo Vegas, some of the (non-turbine style) alloys you mostly see on E9 coupes, or maybe these Ronal or Minilite wheels. The car does also have a little bit of rust, which is not surprising on a BMW of this age, but since the paint’s got a decent amount of shine to it, I’d make sure to treat it (or at least dry-store the car) and make friends with the car before putting any big body money into it.
Here’s the engine that’s been the subject of all that work. Looks pretty clean from a distance, but of course you’d still want to do the full work-up to make sure the rebuild was done properly. The car does need a new clutch master cylinder, but that’s a good excuse to make sure your hydraulics are as new as possible.
Hmm, that exhaust might have to go. You can get a great sound while still retaining that period good look. I’d be a bit worried about the buyer’s suggestion to turbocharge the car and go drifting (really? yes, really). Before I did that, I would spend some money on a nice five speed for more relaxed freeway cruising. Apparently the upholstery also has needs – would it be possible to go Euro style (and cheaper) with some nice velour seats? Those would also be great until you get the A/C fixed.
Second is this equally well-described Bavaria in Grand Rapids, MI for $3200. The seller has provided a comprehensive list of the work he’s done, including brakes, suspension, giubos, cooling, electronic ignition and a clutch slave. The car was used as a summer daily driver, but it would be worth asking him if the cooling work eliminated the symptoms he was experiencing. For some reason, he’s listing the TRX wheels (probably off an M6) as a feature, even though the tires have questionable performance (especially 25 years on) and are outrageously expensive. Sell them to some M6 originality nut, fix any minor needs on this car, and have fun with your New Six!
Rusty But Trusty 
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