BMW M6
 |
| BMW M6 Coupé/Cabriolet | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | BMW M GmbH |
| Production | 1983 - 1989 2005 - Present |
| Assembly | Dingolfing, Germany |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Grand Tourer |
| Body style | 2-door Coupé 2-door convertible |
| Platform | Front engine rear wheel drive |
| Related | BMW 6-Series |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 5.0 L V10 |
| Transmission | 7-speed (SMG) 6-speed manual |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 109.5 in |
| Length | 191.8 in |
| Width | 73 in |
| Height | 54 in |
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 M6. 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, M6 badges on the grille and back, and a subtle spoiler.
In the U.S, the E24 M6 was fitted with the catalysed 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 0-120 mph (154 km/h) time of 6.1 seconds. [citation needed] Also in 1987 Road and Track featured the U.S. M6 as one of the 10 fastest cars in America.[citation needed]
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 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 N·m).
BMW claims it will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds 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 (206 mph). However, people have managed to achieve an outstanding top speed of 340km/h (211.27 mph) - displayed by the HUD; and multiple road tests have shown that the M6 accelerates from 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds.
The M6 will have the same 'power button' as the M5 which modifies the throttle response. From ignition, the car delivers 430 hp (298 kW), but engaging the button allows the full 507 hp. It weighs 1710 kg (3770 lbs) thanks to a carbon fibre reinforced plastic roof panel as well as thermoplastic front wings, aluminium doors and bonnet and compound boot lid.
The carbon fibre 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.
Initially it will only be available as a coupe, although a cabriolet and a lightweight CSL version are expected in 2006 and 2007 respectively. The 2007 Cabriolet is expected to have a 0-60 time in about 4.6 seconds (Road and Track, September 2006). It can be visually distinguished from the 630i, 645Ci and 650i by its deeper front valance with air intakes, more contoured side sills and a rear valance with diffuser as well as four tail pipes.
References
- Kable, G (14. December, 2004). BMW unleashes M6 supercoupe. Autocar pp. 8-11.