1988 BMW M6
Overview
One of just 1,767 US-spec coupes produced between 1987 and 1989, this 1988 BMW M6 represents the pinnacle of BMW’s legendary E24 generation. Finished in Cinnabar Red over Natural leather, the car is powered by a 3.5-liter S38 inline-six producing 256 horsepower — sharing development with the manufacturer’s M1 supercar. A 24-valve DOHC cylinder head, individual throttle bodies, and 5-speed manual shifting elevate this 6-Series as a grand touring experience with motorsport pedigree. Signature styling elements include quad headlights, front fog lights, a rear decklid spoiler, a center twin-tip exhaust, and BBS TRX RS multi-piece wheels.
Beneath the power sunroof, cabin equipment unfolds to offer period luxury with driver-focused ergonomics from power-adjustable front seats, cruise control, and air conditioning to single-year rear climate control, airbags, and knee bolsters. Subtle modifications tally tinted cabin glass, a Nakamichi CD-400 AM/FM/CD stereo receiver paired with JL Audio amplifiers, and stopping power improved by cross-drilled brake rotors. Showing 68,867 miles at the time of cataloging, this M6 presents as a highly usable and increasingly collectible example of BMW’s flagship coupe.
Accompanied by a clean Carfax report and service records from current ownership, the car has reportedly received annual servicing through BMW specialist garage Jack’s Auto & Aero of Bainbridge, Pennsylvania. Recent maintenance includes rebuilt clutch hydraulics, alternator, and a new battery, while tires installed in 2018 show good tread depth remaining. Included with the sale are two keys, service records, a custom car cover, black M6 carpet floor mats, and the factory tool kit, further enhancing its complete appeal as a BMW Motorsport legend.

Features & Options
- 1 of 1,767 US examples produced (1987-1989)
- Cinnabar Red exterior
- Natural leather interior
- 3.5L S38 inline-six engine, 256hp
- 24-valve DOHC w/individual throttle bodies
- 5-speed manual transmission
- M Tech shift knob
- 'Shark-nose' E24 styling w/quad headlights
- Front fog lights
- Rear-wheel drive
- BBS TRX RS wheels, multi-piece
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Cruise control
- Air conditioning
- Rear climate control, air bags & knee bolsters
- Power sunroof
- M6 carpet floor mats, Black
- Rear decklid spoiler
- Twin exhaust tips
Modifications
- Tinted cabin glass
- Nakamichi CD-400 AM/FM/CD stereo receiver
- JL Audio 4-channel amplifiers, trunk-mounted
- Cross-drilled ventilated brake rotors
Service Records
- Clean Carfax report
- Paint meter readings viewable in Extras (above)
- Service records from current ownership, serviced annually at Jack's Auto & Aero of Bainbridge, PA (BMW Specialist)
- Coolant and brake fluid services (2023)
- New Optima AGM battery/terminals, Continental belts & alternator rebuilt (2024)
- New clutch slave/master cylinders, high pressure hose (2025)
- Tires replaced in 2018, reported to show exemplary tread remaining.

Ownership History & Provenance
Kept in collector care, this ultimate '80s BMW coupe shows clean Carfax history extending to 1992. The vehicle is is currently located with the seller in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Known Shortcomings
Sotheby's Motorsport presents this auction in partnership with the seller. This 1988 BMW M6 shows wear consistent with its age and mileage according to the selling dealer.
- The seller notes a single small paint chip to the front of the vehicle and that the air conditioning system (R12) is in need of recharging. Paint meter readings (viewable in Extras) indicate possible minor paintwork isolated to the front nose surrounding the BMW roundel/emblem.
Please click the “Contact Seller” button to reach out with any condition-specific questions. This car is sold where-is, as-is, and bidder is responsible for all due-diligence regarding vehicle condition.
Items included in the Sale
- 2 keys
- Service records from current ownership
- Factory tool kit & accessories
- M6 carpet floor mats, Black
- Custom car cover
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