BMW M6

The BMW M6 is a super-high-performance version of its already impressive, large 6 Series coupe.

The heart and soul of the M6 is a brawny, 5.0-liter V10 it shares with the M5 sedan. It’s mated to the industry’s first seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG), also found on the M5, which is essentially a manual transmission whose clutch is engaged automatically (there's no clutch pedal). Gears are selected by tapping paddles behind the steering wheel, or by using the stubby shift lever on the center console. An "automatic" mode shifts gears for the driver, approximating a traditional automatic transmission, though it isn't as smooth in operation.


Despite the car’s hefty curb weight (3,909 pounds), BMW claims a zero-to-60 mph sprint of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. You’ll pay a $3,000 federal gas-guzzler tax for the privilege of going that fast.

The M6's performance and handling characteristics can be tailored to suit a wide range of driving styles and preferences. While in theory such customization is a boon to enthusiasts looking to squeeze as much performance out of the car as possible, the sheer complexity of systems required to achieve this can be daunting.

The engine can be set in three separate programs — P400, P500 and P500 Sport — with each one offering progressively more explosive performance. The SMG’s Drivelogic technology provides 11 different shift programs, while the suspension’s Electronic Damping Control offers three levels of shock-absorber firmness — Normal, Comfort and Sport.

The car’s Dynamic Stability Control system, which uses throttle- and brake-control to help minimize wheel spin and prevent a loss of control during extreme handling maneuvers, can be set to a more aggressive M Dynamic mode that allows a higher level of wheel slip. It can also be turned off altogether, which would allow the car to be coaxed into controlled skids around curves, called drifting.

In all, BMW says these systems combine for a dizzying total of 279 possible combinations of settings. Fortunately, the car’s M Drive function allows a motorist to store preferred settings for each of these systems into one program, which can be engaged by pressing the “M” button on the steering wheel.

Exterior styling differences on the M6 as compared with the standard 650 coupe are subtle and include a unique front-air dam that channels extra air to the engine and brakes; a special rear air-diffuser that improves aerodynamics; quad exhaust tips; front-fender side gills; sculpted rocker panels; and special side mirrors and wheels.

The M6 features the first use of a carbon-fiber roof in a production vehicle for structural integrity and weight reduction. It also helps lower the car's center of gravity to improve handling. The interior is similar to the 650’s and affords eight upholstery choices, including five leather treatments.


BMW's iDrive system is standard. It combines all of the interior controls into one large knob on the center console that controls menus on a dash-mounted screen. Despite some redundant buttons and knobs for stereo and heating/ventilation systems, iDrive can prove difficult to master, which is the opposite of its intent.

As with the 650, the M6’s cockpit is comfortable — at least for front-seat occupants — and includes a wealth of standard comfort and convenience features. The only options are a head-up display, keyless access/starting system, high-definition radio and satellite radio.

While it’s technically a 2+2 coupe with seating for four occupants, the spatially challenged rear-seat area works better as a padded cargo shelf than it does for seating even the smallest of riders. Many buyers will find the four-door M5 a more practical choice in this regard.

by Jim Gorzelany