BMW M6

BMW M6 Coupé/Cabriolet

Manufacturer	BMW M GmbH
Production	1983-1989 2005-Present
Class	Grand Tourer
Body style(s)	2-door coupé 2-door convertible
Platform	FR layout
Related	BMW 6-Series

First generation

Production	1983-1989
Platform	BMW E24
Engine(s)	3.5 L I6 286 PS (282 hp/210 kW) USA and catalyst version 256 hp (191 kW)
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual
Wheelbase	2620 mm (103.1 in)
Length	4755 mm (187.2 in) USA 193.8 in (4923 mm)
Width	1725 mm (67.9 in)
Height	1354 mm (53.3 in)

Second generation

Production	2005-present
Assembly	Dingolfing, Germany
Platform	BMW E64
Engine(s)	5.0 L 507 bhp V10
Transmission(s)	7-speed (SMG) 6-speed manual
Wheelbase	109.5 in (2781 mm)
Length	191.8 in (4872 mm)
Width	73 in (1854 mm)
Height	54 in (1372 mm)

The BMW M6 is a high-performance version of the 6-Series automobile, designed by the motorsport division of the German manufacturer.

E24 M635CSi/"M6"

In 1983 BMW took the M88/3 engine, a modified version of the M88/1 from the BMW M1 and put it in the E24 chassis of the BMW 6-Series, creating the M635CSi (called "M6" in North America). The "M6" was critically acclaimed throughout its lifespan for its elegant, aggressive "shark-nose" styling, its well-appointed luxury features, and its quick performance. An M6 can be distinguished from other E24 models by a larger air dam, M badges on the grille and back, and a subtle spoiler.

In the U.S, the E24 "M6" was fitted with the catalyzed S38 motor, producing 256 hp (191 kW) and 243 ft·lbf (329 N·m) of torque. The European version did not need catalysts, and produced 286 hp (213 kW) and 251 ft·lbf (340 N·m) of torque. The "M6" was good for a 0-60 mph (97 km/h) time of 6.4 and 6.8 seconds for the European and American versions, respectively. However, Car and Driver Magazine tested the U.S. "M6" in July of 1987 and achieved a 0-60 mph (100 km/h) time of 6.1 seconds. Also in 1987 Road and Track featured the U.S. "M6" as one of the 10 fastest cars in America.

Production of the "M6" ended in 1989, with 5,855 cars sold, 1,767 of which were North American (U.S. & Canada) models.

E63 M6

The new BMW M6 concept made its debut at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show. It is based on the BMW E63/E64 6-Series, introduced in 2004. It shares the same 5.0 L V10 S85 engine and SMG III gearbox with the E60 M5, and produces 507 hp (373 kW) / 384 ft·lbf (521 Nm).

BMW claims it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds (0-60 mph: 4.1 s [Road & Track [2/06]) and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). With the limiter removed, the top speed can reach 330 km/h (205 mph).

The M6 has the same 'power button' as the M5 which modifies the throttle response. From ignition, the car delivers 399 hp (298 kW), but engaging the button allows the full 500 hp (370 kW) in the US (507PS in Europe). It weighs 3770 lb (1710 kg) thanks to a carbon fibre reinforced plastic roof panel as well as thermoplastic front wings, aluminum doors and bonnet and compound boot lid.

The carbon fiber and other light materials are used in places like the bumpers and roof that are far from the centre of gravity and/or high up, so that they not only reduce the overall weight but improve the handling by reducing, respectively, the moment of inertia and the centre of mass height.

It is currently available as a coupe and a cabriolet. A lightweight CSL version of the M6 was expected to be released in the near future, however, BMW has since officially stated that no such version of the M6 will be built, as there is currently no market for such a model. The 2007 Cabriolet is expected to have a 0-60 time in about 4.6 seconds(4.8 convertible)(Road and Track, September 2006). Both the M6 coupe and convertible can be visually distinguished from the 630i, 645Ci and 650i by their deeper front valance with air intakes, more contoured side sills, aerodynamic side view mirrors, an additional rear valance with diffuser and the absence of front fog lights.