The first generation of BMW 6 Series was introduced for the 1977 model year. Known as the E24, the first generation 6 Series was a range of two door coupes available with a variety of BMW straight six engines. The E24 enjoyed success as a Race Car as well, helping to increase the car's profile. Variants of the E24 include the 628CSi - Manual, 628CSi - Automatic, 630CSi - Manual, 630CSi - Automatic, 633CSi - Manual, 633CSi - Automatic, 635CSi - Manual, 635CSi - Automatic, L6, M635CSi / M6, Alpina B7, Alpina B9 and Alpina B10. Produced until 1989, the E24 6 Series did not see a true successor until BMW revived the 6 Series in 2004 with the BMW E63 6 Series.