Wheels of NYC edition, Vol 018

Wheels for Sale, Community Highlight, and a Touch of Nostalgia

Dec 10, 2024

In this edition of the Wheels of NYC newsletter, we're excited to announce the launch of the Wheels for Sale project. Over the years, we've received countless emails and DMs asking if we can help community members sell their cars. Many of these requests mentioned how important it is to keep the car within the community, circulating among like-minded enthusiasts.

We listened and brought this vision to life. Wheels for Sale is all about helping community members sell their cars in the way we know best—by sharing the story of the owner and their car. We highlight the passion and love each owner has for their machine, helping find the perfect next owner to open a new chapter with the car. This way, we keep these special vehicles thriving within the NY car culture.

If you're looking to sell your car, we'd love to support you. Reach out to Tom at Tom@wheelsof.com

Wheels for sale No.1 - Ben’s 1986 BMW 635csi

Hi Ben, would you mind sharing what first inspired you to buy it?

Ben: My love for the E24 was inspired by a different shark-nosed car designed by Paul Bracq—a gorgeous Fjord Blue 3 Series that I’d seen parked in Greenpoint. That smaller car led me to discover the larger 6 Series coupe. I wanted the same elegant lines but with a bigger engine and cockpit. At the time, I owned a Mercedes 380SL convertible, also designed by Bracq. The 6 Series felt like the next step in my journey with that classic '80s aesthetic.

What unique features make this car special to you?

Ben: You're surrounded by glass in this car. The narrow center pillar gives the cockpit a solarium-like feel, making it incredibly open and light. The rims are special too—a unique addition from the first owner. They’re clearly not stock, and they add a bit of swagger to the E24’s refined style.

Why are you selling it?

Ben: The old saying, "We’re not owners, just caretakers for the next driver," feels right in this case. The prior two owners were passionate about its care and about making sure it was driven. I’ve loved and learned a lot from this car too, but life as a parent of a toddler brings new pressures and priorities. It’s time for me to find its next custodian.

Visit our Wheels for Sale page for more details, the updated price, and additional content about Ben’s car

Hi Joe, it’s good to have you here. Can you start by telling us what you do for a living?

Joe: I currently work for the City of NY. I’ve also been a long-time car enthusiast and an automotive YouTuber on the side.

What inspired you to build this car?

Honestly, my heart is with Porsche 911s. They’re such phenomenal cars, but I started out as a JDM car enthusiast. Building an RWB was on my bucket list of dream cars to attain. Owning a Porsche RWB allowed me to blend and combine those two worlds—JDM and Euro, haha.

How long did this build take? How many people were involved in this project?

This build took almost five years, mainly because of the pandemic in early 2020. Nakai was unable to complete builds due to the worldwide shutdown and flight restrictions. I had just gotten on the RWB list before the shutdown, and that’s what prolonged this build. So many people were involved, starting with my wife and close circle of friends, who I always went to for feedback on my ideas. Then there were the sponsors who partnered with me on this project—BASF, Phantasy Kolors, Toyo Tires, FCP Euro, R1 Concepts Brakes, Evo61 Wheels, just to name a few. Read the full interview on our website