It’s well known that the E63 6 Series coupé that ran from 2003 to 2011 has a penchant for the black stuff, slurping it greedily and occasionally blowing it out through rocker cover gaskets, breather hoses and down cylinder bores. It sounds like a non-starter, but what the hell, we’re suckers for a big koop.
A twin-turbo 3.0-litre diesel version will be cheaper to run but you’re better off with the sweeter 630i petrol. A 2007 facelift car with the Efficient Dynamics package is what you need. The 3.0-litre engine makes 268bhp and up to 35.8mpg is possible with a feather-light foot.
We found an 08-reg car with 68,000 miles for £8799. It’s had two former keepers and has a full main dealer history, with eight stamps in the book. Dual-zone climate control, black leather, heated and powered memory seats, parking sensors and 19in alloys – they’re all here.
For a careful and thorough check-over, start with those oil leaks and then the Vanos system, whose actuators and solenoids can fail. The oil separator breather pipe can become detached, so we’d inspect that too.
We’d want to be sure there’s sufficient fluid in the gearbox, since the plastic sump cover can leak (the filter is part of it). On the test drive we’d feel for smooth shifts. Along urban roads we’d be checking for a shuddering sensation through the brake pedal caused by damaged front control struts that are prone to speed bump impact. We’d also be alert to uneven handling caused by broken rear springs. We won’t waste time looking for rust but fresh paint will be on our radar.
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BMW
I have combed the used market for years and years. BMW represents the best value by far.
I would have incuded these in the article...
Private. 2014 plate 123k 435 Diesel 2 owner, FBMWSH £12,995 ono.
Trade. 2016 Plate 127K 435 Diesel 1 owner FBMWSH £14,975 ono
Incredible!