Then, in 2003, the 6 series was relaunched, and in 2011 was revised. The model you see in the photos is the very latest M6 Gran Coupe. Gone is the short wheelbase, sharknose and pretty rear, to be replaced with a wide nostrilled, horizontal BMW grille, a long wheelbase and fussy lines slashed across it's flanks.
Has BMW design gone backwards or forwards over the decades? Have BMW ruined the 6 series? Or is modern BMW design just as brilliant as it was back in the 70s and 80s?
Put it this way. If both cars were brand new today would you rather have an M6 Gran Coupe or a 635CSi on your drive?