With its ZF-sourced six-speed manual transmission and a third pedal in the driver's footwell, today's Nice Price or No Dice 650i stands out as uncommon. Determine whether its asking price makes you eager to see it parked in your driveway regularly.

Work stoppages have influenced the global auto sector. In the United States, strikes over perceived unfair practices spurred strong labor unions that amplified worker voices. During the 1970s in Great Britain, strikes severely limited output and contributed notably to the downturn of the domestic auto sector. Clearly, vehicles and labor disputes do not pair well.

This explains the extra care taken when reviewing the 1985 Volkswagen Scirocco 16V last Friday. Though reasonably sound and intact, the seller listed it as non-operational. The cause of its immobility invited speculation among interested parties. At $4,999, most declined to pursue uncertain prospects, resulting in an 82 percent No Dice rejection.

Coupe d'etat

Fortunately, this clean-title 2006 BMW 650i E64 starts and moves under its own power. It also features a ZF six-speed manual behind its strong N62 V8.

BMW launched the E63 6 Series coupe in 2003, with the open-air E64 convertible following in 2004. This era marked the height of Chris Bangle's influence on BMW styling. Although he had produced understated work for Opel and Fiat earlier, his approach at BMW proved divisive.

The outcome included polarizing shapes and the infamous Bangle Butt tail, which affected both the 6 Series and 7 Series. This rounded, tapered rear quarter ends in a stretched trunk lid that suggests a more appealing form beneath. The look drew criticism then and continues to do so now. The nose also faced scrutiny for its unusual headlight treatment that gives a perpetually puzzled expression. At minimum it retains classic twin-kidney grilles, unlike current BMW efforts.

Flame wars

Bangle and BMW labeled the styling flame surfacing. Despite its bulk and quirks, the design has not deterred ownership, as this example has seen only two prior keepers. They maintained it well enough to keep it presentable.

Photos in the listing confirm the care: silver-gray metallic paint remains attractive, and the 19-inch Style 121 wheels show only light curb marks. Fresh Michelin tires further indicate attentive previous ownership.

The interior appears equally well kept, though it includes some odd choices such as the elaborate cup holder. It also carries BMW's criticized iDrive controller. The black cabin with silver trim feels restrained. Still, the car offers what it offers.

From the factory it arrived well equipped with nearly every available feature, Shadowline trim, and both sport and cold-weather packages.

A history of service

Additional positives include just 96,258 miles, detailed service records, and a recent state safety check. Offered by a dealer, the car includes a three-month, 3,000-mile powertrain warranty for reassurance when purchasing a complex older German vehicle.

The warranty excludes items such as convertible top hydraulics or electrical gremlins that can appear on a car approaching two decades old.

To offset those concerns, consider the specifications. The aluminum N62 V8 delivers 362 horsepower and 361 pound-feet of torque. Power reaches a limited-slip differential through the six-speed manual. Four-wheel disc brakes handle stopping duties. The instrument cluster shows no warning lights except a possible low-pressure tire alert that may stem from a faulty sensor.

Worth a look?

Many may find the 650i growing more appealing, with any urge to confront Chris Bangle diminishing over time. Scars fade, after all.

That leaves the price of this maintained and optioned BMW at $12,499, well below its original cost exceeding $84,000. Large BMWs of this type often suffer steep value loss.

The real question is whether the reduced price now attracts enthusiasts who previously could not consider it. Does this 650i convertible represent a compelling open-air value at $12,499, or do its history and appearance make it a pass?

The choice is yours.

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Craigslist listing.

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