The BMW 635 CSI Is A Gentleman’s Coupe

According to Michael Chasteen, of Los Angeles, the 1986 BMW 635 CSI is a “gentleman’s coupe”. The car has fantastic handling, a luxurious feel, and beautiful angles. The E24 maintains an even balance of a modern ’80s feel while still holding to a vintage aesthetic. The steering is tight, making it comfortable at high speeds—this car is truly about power and control.

Michael inherited the car from his father-in-law, who originally became interested in BMWs after living across the street from Max Hoffman, one of the first men who brought BMW to the states. When Michael first picked the car up in Reno, it was in near perfect condition. Michael’s father-in-law kept letters from Max Hoffman, which Michael has continued to keep safe over the years. Since he acquired the car, Michael has driven it from Reno to Los Angeles several times, claiming this drive as his favorite. As much as he enjoys the pretty scenery with its mountains and rivers along the way, above all Michael loves to go fast, and on this drive are a fair share of straight-aways where he can allow the 3.5 liter stretch its legs.

Michael replaced the stock wheels with the BBS set, because he liked that the BBS wheels offered more options in regards to tires. These wheels also give the car a slightly more aggressive tone. This car has been Michael’s daily driver for about a year now, and in his opinion, it’s a perfect daily driver due to its great visibility.

Whether a person owns the car or not, there is a certain feeling of class one feels when sitting behind the wheel of this classic BMW, like putting on a suit that’s tailored to one’s exact specifications and measurements. Sitting in the drivers seat, this car feels sturdy and sometimes large but not too heavy. It’s easy to see why Michael enjoys driving this car day in and day out.

Photography by Andrew Schneider