1983 BMW 633CSi

Hello, and thanks for viewing my listing for my 1983 BMW 633CSi. I’m the current owner, and I’ve prepared this write-up to answer the most common questions buyers usually have. If you need additional photos, videos, paperwork, or cold-start clips, I’m happy to provide them.

History

My father purchased the car in 1996 in Memphis, TN, where it served as his second vehicle. I acquired it in 2000 and drove it daily until 2003. Since then, it has been a fun weekend car. It has always been a Southern, garage-kept vehicle and only moved to Illinois in 2024. From 2004 to today, the mileage accumulation has been very low.

All repairs from 1996 to present were handled by Alpine Auto Works in Memphis, ensuring consistent and professional maintenance.

Body

The body is rust-free thanks to its Southern history. The original paint shows fading, mainly on the roof and upper panels. The car was involved in two accidents years ago: one at the passenger front and one at the driver rear. Both were professionally repaired by European-specialty body shops to BMW standards.

Wheels & Tires

The 14-inch bottle caps wheels were refinished and still look close to OEM, though they show some imperfections from use. Tires were replaced in 2019 and have plenty of life left due to low mileage since installation.

Engine

The original head gasket failed around 153k miles. Alpine Auto Works completed the rebuild. The head was refinished by Memphis Motor Works with new valve guides and full inspection. The original bottom end was replaced with a low-mileage (20k) 1991 E34 block. Bearings and caps were checked and within tolerance; pistons were not removed. The engine has had a mild cold-start piston slap since the rebuild, which disappears when warm and does not affect performance. Around 15k miles have been added since the rebuild. The car is badged 633CSi but effectively runs as a high-compression 635-spec engine with strong low-end power.

Fuel system: both pumps replaced (tank pump 2019, external pump 2024). Injectors were new at the time of the rebuild.

Hydraulics & Brakes

Over the years the car has received a new clutch master, brake master, multiple brake accumulators, and in 2025 a new brake booster. Pads and rotors work fine now but may need replacement in the future.

Electrical

No electrical issues. The car includes a plug-and-play trickle-charger connection for storage.

Interior

Both front seats were reupholstered and rear seats redyed. Dash has typical E24 cracking. Headliner was redone, and new Cocoa mats were added in 2024. The speedometer was rebuilt by North Hollywood Speedometer in 2006 with new bulbs, gears, and SI board (paperwork no longer available).

Audio: rewired in 2000 with Alpine front speakers, MB Quart rears, and a Kenwood Excelon head unit upgraded with Bluetooth.
Onboard computer: fully functional.
Windows: rear motors are seized. In 2025, both front door handles were replaced, window tracks re-greased, and new vapor barriers installed. Door seals are cracked from age.

Suspension & Drivetrain

Transmission rebuilt by Metric Mechanic with their Ultimate Rebuild Package. The car has a 3.73 limited-slip differential. Front suspension pieces were replaced over time, many with urethane parts. Rear subframe bushings were replaced with urethane in 2004. In 2010, the car was restored to OEM ride height with Bilstein shocks and OEM springs. It drives smoothly with no shakes or wobbles.

Final Thoughts

This is a well-maintained, rust-free, family-owned BMW that has had extensive mechanical care. It’s fun to drive, reliable, and an excellent candidate for someone looking to take an E24 into its next chapter. Thanks for looking, and feel free to reach out for more pictures or details.