BMW 6-series I (E24) gallery (1976–1989)

The first-generation BMW 6 Series E24 defined the modern luxury grand tourer with its iconic shark-nose design and smooth inline-six engines.

BMW 6-series I (E24), coupe, blue, front three-quarter view — photo 36218 1024 x 768 115 6-series E24
coupe A classic dark blue two-door coupe with a shark-nose front fascia, dual round headlights, and multi-spoke alloy wheels parked on a paved cobblestone lot.
BMW 6-series I (E24), coupe, blue, front three-quarter view — photo 36216 1024 x 768 103 6-series E24
coupe A dark blue classic two-door coupe with quad round headlights, multi-spoke silver alloy wheels, and chrome trim parked outdoors at a car meet.

Debuting in 1976 as the successor to the legendary E9 coupe, the E24 generation established BMW as a dominant force in the premium grand touring market. Penned under the direction of Paul Bracq, the sleek two-door coupe captured attention with its aggressive forward-leaning radiator grille, earning it the enduring nickname "Sharknose." Inside, the E24 introduced the driver-centric dashboard orientation that became a signature ergonomic element for the Bavarian brand. Over its thirteen-year production run, the flagship coupe embodied an understated blend of prestige, comfort, and dynamic capability.

Power came exclusively from BMW’s smooth naturally aspirated inline-six M30 engine family, ranging from 2.8 to 3.5 liters of displacement. Engineering highlights included advanced electronic fuel injection systems like Bosch Motronic and a sophisticated fully independent suspension. The E24 remained in production until 1989, securing its legacy as BMW’s longest-running single generation and cementing its place as a timeless collector classic in automotive history.