Which classic BMWs are the most sought after?
BMW’s sporting history comes down to a handful of models, each with its own engineering. A classic BMW specialist needs to know those differences before lifting a bonnet:
- 507 (1956–1959): an aluminium V8 roadster built in very small numbers;
- 2002 (1968–1976): the two-door of the “Neue Klasse”, with the M10 four-cylinder; the 2002 tii gained Kugelfischer mechanical injection in 1971, and the 2002 turbo arrived in 1973;
- E9 (1968–1975): the 2800 CS, 3.0 CS, 3.0 CSi and 3.0 CSL coupés, with the M30 straight six; the CSL, lightened with aluminium opening panels, received the aerodynamic kit nicknamed “Batmobile”;
- M1 (1978–1981): mid-mounted 24-valve M88 straight six, glass-fibre body on a tubular frame;
- E24 M635CSi and E28 M5, which carried the M1’s six-cylinder into a coupé and a saloon;
- E30 M3 (1986–1991): 16-valve S14 four-cylinder, flared wings, Evolution and Sport Evolution versions;
- Z1 (1989–1991): doors that retract into the sills, body panels in composite materials;
- Z8 (2000–2003): aluminium structure and body, with the V8 shared with the M5 of the day.
Recent BMW M cars: M3, M4, M5 and M8
Since the E30, each generation of M3 has changed layout: four cylinders, then a straight six, a naturally aspirated V8 on the E90 and E92, and a twin-turbo straight six on today’s M3 and M4. The M5 had a V10 in E60 form, then a twin-turbo V8, and a plug-in hybrid powertrain on its latest generation; the M8 also uses that twin-turbo V8.
These cars need rigorous care according to the manufacturer’s programme, with points well known to specialists: rod bearing wear on certain naturally aspirated engines (S54, S65, S85), the VANOS variable valve timing, the SMG automated gearboxes of the E46 M3 and E60 M5, hard-worked brakes and engine management electronics. Servicing is by appointment; European law allows servicing outside the dealer network provided the manufacturer’s programme is followed with parts of equivalent quality.
Why do BMW engines call for particular care?
Engines made the marque’s name: the robust M10 four-cylinder, the smooth and durable M30 six, the racing-derived four-valve S14 and M88. They cope well with mileage when properly maintained, but quickly reveal neglected cooling, a tired timing drive or careless adjustment.
When an engine has to be opened, an engine rebuild starts with strip-down and measurement: cylinder head, camshaft, valves, timing drive, pistons, bearings. On the 2002 tii, the Kugelfischer injection pump is set up with the right tools and a great deal of method; on the M1 and E30 M3, model-specific parts require careful sourcing.
Restoring a BMW from the 1960s to the 1990s
Corrosion is the main enemy of BMWs from this period, starting with the E9 coupés, notorious for it. A serious restoration begins with an inspection on the lift and, often, a bare shell. The approach model by model — 2002, E9, E24, E30, Z1 — is set out on the classic BMW restoration page.
Faithful to the original or a personal interpretation: the choice is yours. An E30 or a 2002 also lends itself to bespoke preparation in the spirit of the car: engine reworked, suspension, upholstery, colour.
How the workshop looks after a BMW
Established in Mougins since 2017, the independent workshop Original Classic & Luxury Cars inspects every car before drawing up a quote, item by item; a first opinion is possible from photographs and videos sent remotely. A single team follows the car, photographs of the key stages are sent to you, and nothing is added to the quote without your approval. The detailed invoice then serves as a service record.
Parts are original, of equivalent quality or reconditioned depending on availability, with their origin stated. Upholstery — leather, cloth, headlining — is made entirely in-house. For a car that is far away, transport is arranged on request, within France and across Europe.