BMW M Series M6 Convertible 4.4 (A) Review
08 Aug 2012|18,318 views
The BMW M6 was first produced in the early eighties under the codename E24 but it somehow ended six years later, only to be introduced again years later in 2005. This second generation sported a 5.0-litre V10 powerplant which was also the very same one in the E60 M5 and was capable of churning a whopping 500bhp and 520Nm of torque from the word go.
After a brief sabbatical, the third and latest M6 has arrived and like its predecessor, it now shares the same gearbox and engine as the latest M5, with the M6 delivering more style as well as reduced practicality. Showcased at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the M6 ditches the previous model’s high-revving V10 powerplant for a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8.
No shame in that because BMW’s series of M-badged high-performance variants are often regarded as some of the best performance cars in the world. And after a brief encounter with the latest M, we reckon BMW fanboys will still continue to ritually enrapture themselves over the small blue, purple and red badge that designates the Bavarian marque’s hulkier traits.
Exterior
Exterior changes compared with a regular 6er are largely functional and aimed. As with all the M cars, nothing about the car's styling is merely for the sake of aesthetics. For the most part, function meets form with its enlarged front intakes and unique front grille, all for the sake of providing sufficient cooling air for the potent engine. Still, the M6 Convertible will be immediately recognised as an elegant 6 Series, albeit looking more powerful and sportier.
After a brief sabbatical, the third and latest M6 has arrived and like its predecessor, it now shares the same gearbox and engine as the latest M5, with the M6 delivering more style as well as reduced practicality. Showcased at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the M6 ditches the previous model’s high-revving V10 powerplant for a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8.
No shame in that because BMW’s series of M-badged high-performance variants are often regarded as some of the best performance cars in the world. And after a brief encounter with the latest M, we reckon BMW fanboys will still continue to ritually enrapture themselves over the small blue, purple and red badge that designates the Bavarian marque’s hulkier traits.
Exterior
Exterior changes compared with a regular 6er are largely functional and aimed. As with all the M cars, nothing about the car's styling is merely for the sake of aesthetics. For the most part, function meets form with its enlarged front intakes and unique front grille, all for the sake of providing sufficient cooling air for the potent engine. Still, the M6 Convertible will be immediately recognised as an elegant 6 Series, albeit looking more powerful and sportier.
 |
One unexpected but classy touch was having an M6 badge added to the left side of the kidney grille that pays homage to the original 1987 M6. It certainly benefits from a substantial de-Bangle-ing and subtle aggression that can easily be differentiated from the regular 6 Series.
 |
At 4898mm x 1919mm x 1368mm (L x W x H), the look of this M6 Convertible took on a low-slung style with unique front and rear fascias to enhance performance and aerodynamic efficiency. From the rear, the signature quad exhaust outlets poke out from beneath the prominent diffuser which even the most ignorant of motorists cannot help but take note of while the 20-inch alloy rims, which houses the blue brake calipers, complete this sporting package.
Blue ‘M’ brake calipers complete the entire sporting package
Interior
On the inside, the M6 displays a handsome and serious design aesthetic, with fire red leather upholstery and a generous amount of carbon fibre trim on the centre console as well as the side door panels. But one cannot deny, like all M cars, that the cockpit is a welcoming place that motor heads constantly fantasize about. Plus, with firm but friendly and comfortable seats, there simply isn’t a lack for adjustability.
Like the current line-up of models in BMW, buttons and switches are kept to a minimum in the M6, thanks to BMW's iDrive electronics interface that gives you quick and easy access to the car’s many infotainment functions. And it’s also through this control system where you are able to programme two preferred driving configurations.
Interior
On the inside, the M6 displays a handsome and serious design aesthetic, with fire red leather upholstery and a generous amount of carbon fibre trim on the centre console as well as the side door panels. But one cannot deny, like all M cars, that the cockpit is a welcoming place that motor heads constantly fantasize about. Plus, with firm but friendly and comfortable seats, there simply isn’t a lack for adjustability.
Like the current line-up of models in BMW, buttons and switches are kept to a minimum in the M6, thanks to BMW's iDrive electronics interface that gives you quick and easy access to the car’s many infotainment functions. And it’s also through this control system where you are able to programme two preferred driving configurations.
To simplify selecting the different modes, the steering wheel has been equipped with two M Drive buttons (or magical M buttons if you like), acting as preset ‘memory buttons’, which can be used to ‘call up’ a setup for the car.
Two ‘M’ buttons available to ‘call up’ your favourite drive setup
It’s such attention to details that make the M6 feel more special than the lesser version of the 6 Series. Not to say that the 6er is lame or boring in any way but they do make this steroidal convertible worth every penny you are paying for and space isn’t excluded. Even with the roof in place, occupants will still enjoy sufficient head and legroom up front. Like the 6er, a pair of rear seats is on offer but they are better left for the occasional kids when it’s due time for a leisurely drive.
Overall, the cabin may not be as aesthetically pleasing as say the Bentley Continental GT but it’s still top notch, thanks to a very functional cockpit that has a second-to-none fit and finish.
It’s such attention to details that make the M6 feel more special than the lesser version of the 6 Series. Not to say that the 6er is lame or boring in any way but they do make this steroidal convertible worth every penny you are paying for and space isn’t excluded. Even with the roof in place, occupants will still enjoy sufficient head and legroom up front. Like the 6er, a pair of rear seats is on offer but they are better left for the occasional kids when it’s due time for a leisurely drive.
Overall, the cabin may not be as aesthetically pleasing as say the Bentley Continental GT but it’s still top notch, thanks to a very functional cockpit that has a second-to-none fit and finish.
 |
The Drive
Although we have seen these M machines changing radically over the years, especially in the M3 and the M5, the M6 hasn’t lost much of its hardcore soul from its previous character. No doubt that it appears to be the ‘softest’ M car in the current line-up, this convertible sports an engine with 560bhp and 680Nm of torque, developing 60 horses and 160Nm of torque more than the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V10 of the previous M6 - all of which are funnelled to the road through the rear wheels.
The 4.4-litre V8 engine makes all the magic possible
These extra figures do help to propel the car from a standstill to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds before reaching a top speed of 250km/h. Its engine spins to its redline almost instantly, rewarding you with a muscular driving force that reminds you that it’s no ordinary 6er you’re handling.
A tickle of the throttle sends the revs soaring and the free-flow exhaust snarling through its quad tailpipes, making the sound effects and the sensation of adrenaline rush enjoyable. The new V8 gem may be less of a screamer than the superseded 10-pot powerplant but there is a lot of strength and confidence as it blasts away and guns towards the horizon effortlessly.
The M6 may not be the best handling firecracker on the twisted roads but it does throw itself into them with almost casual abandon, hooking up long sweepers and short stabbing corners with impressive nonchalance. It has ample grip too, thanks to its Michelin Pilot Super Sport footwear, piloting the course of bends in a very secured and predictable manner. Driving the M6 is almost like wearing the car - it just fits well and lends confidence to the manoeuvres you attempt while behind the wheel.
Although we have seen these M machines changing radically over the years, especially in the M3 and the M5, the M6 hasn’t lost much of its hardcore soul from its previous character. No doubt that it appears to be the ‘softest’ M car in the current line-up, this convertible sports an engine with 560bhp and 680Nm of torque, developing 60 horses and 160Nm of torque more than the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V10 of the previous M6 - all of which are funnelled to the road through the rear wheels.
These extra figures do help to propel the car from a standstill to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds before reaching a top speed of 250km/h. Its engine spins to its redline almost instantly, rewarding you with a muscular driving force that reminds you that it’s no ordinary 6er you’re handling.
A tickle of the throttle sends the revs soaring and the free-flow exhaust snarling through its quad tailpipes, making the sound effects and the sensation of adrenaline rush enjoyable. The new V8 gem may be less of a screamer than the superseded 10-pot powerplant but there is a lot of strength and confidence as it blasts away and guns towards the horizon effortlessly.
The M6 may not be the best handling firecracker on the twisted roads but it does throw itself into them with almost casual abandon, hooking up long sweepers and short stabbing corners with impressive nonchalance. It has ample grip too, thanks to its Michelin Pilot Super Sport footwear, piloting the course of bends in a very secured and predictable manner. Driving the M6 is almost like wearing the car - it just fits well and lends confidence to the manoeuvres you attempt while behind the wheel.
More notably, swapping cogs with enthusiasm is now standard with the seven-speed M-DCT gearbox. The double-clutch bites in ferociously fast and is harder to fault as it delivers smooth shifts regardless of whether you’re in the mood for manual overwrite or in convenient auto mode.
The M-DCT unit makes swapping of gears with alacrity possible
The automatic opening and closing process for the roof can be activated both at a standstill and while on the move at speeds of up to 40km/h using a button on the centre console. It takes a good 19 seconds for the top to drop and a slightly longer 24 seconds for it to be back in place.
Of course, it isn’t exactly a suitable choice for the M6 to take its convertible form during the day, no thanks to our scorching climate. But it is nevertheless a temptation to drop its top, considering the ruckus the car will make when door-handled like a madman.
Conclusion
BMW has achieved supercar level with the M6 Convertible. It looks great regardless with its roof up or down, goes like a beast on the straights while keeping its composure round the twisties and has a well-appointed cabin. But the truth is this is a car you would admire more than you desire.
But one thing’s for sure – this car is a true blue BMW M6 and is worth every bit the M badge.
The automatic opening and closing process for the roof can be activated both at a standstill and while on the move at speeds of up to 40km/h using a button on the centre console. It takes a good 19 seconds for the top to drop and a slightly longer 24 seconds for it to be back in place.
Of course, it isn’t exactly a suitable choice for the M6 to take its convertible form during the day, no thanks to our scorching climate. But it is nevertheless a temptation to drop its top, considering the ruckus the car will make when door-handled like a madman.
Conclusion
BMW has achieved supercar level with the M6 Convertible. It looks great regardless with its roof up or down, goes like a beast on the straights while keeping its composure round the twisties and has a well-appointed cabin. But the truth is this is a car you would admire more than you desire.
But one thing’s for sure – this car is a true blue BMW M6 and is worth every bit the M badge.
The BMW M6 was first produced in the early eighties under the codename E24 but it somehow ended six years later, only to be introduced again years later in 2005. This second generation sported a 5.0-litre V10 powerplant which was also the very same one in the E60 M5 and was capable of churning a whopping 500bhp and 520Nm of torque from the word go.
After a brief sabbatical, the third and latest M6 has arrived and like its predecessor, it now shares the same gearbox and engine as the latest M5, with the M6 delivering more style as well as reduced practicality. Showcased at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the M6 ditches the previous model’s high-revving V10 powerplant for a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8.
No shame in that because BMW’s series of M-badged high-performance variants are often regarded as some of the best performance cars in the world. And after a brief encounter with the latest M, we reckon BMW fanboys will still continue to ritually enrapture themselves over the small blue, purple and red badge that designates the Bavarian marque’s hulkier traits.
Exterior
Exterior changes compared with a regular 6er are largely functional and aimed. As with all the M cars, nothing about the car's styling is merely for the sake of aesthetics. For the most part, function meets form with its enlarged front intakes and unique front grille, all for the sake of providing sufficient cooling air for the potent engine. Still, the M6 Convertible will be immediately recognised as an elegant 6 Series, albeit looking more powerful and sportier.
After a brief sabbatical, the third and latest M6 has arrived and like its predecessor, it now shares the same gearbox and engine as the latest M5, with the M6 delivering more style as well as reduced practicality. Showcased at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, the M6 ditches the previous model’s high-revving V10 powerplant for a direct-injected, twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8.
No shame in that because BMW’s series of M-badged high-performance variants are often regarded as some of the best performance cars in the world. And after a brief encounter with the latest M, we reckon BMW fanboys will still continue to ritually enrapture themselves over the small blue, purple and red badge that designates the Bavarian marque’s hulkier traits.
Exterior
Exterior changes compared with a regular 6er are largely functional and aimed. As with all the M cars, nothing about the car's styling is merely for the sake of aesthetics. For the most part, function meets form with its enlarged front intakes and unique front grille, all for the sake of providing sufficient cooling air for the potent engine. Still, the M6 Convertible will be immediately recognised as an elegant 6 Series, albeit looking more powerful and sportier.
One unexpected but classy touch was having an M6 badge added to the left side of the kidney grille that pays homage to the original 1987 M6. It certainly benefits from a substantial de-Bangle-ing and subtle aggression that can easily be differentiated from the regular 6 Series.
At 4898mm x 1919mm x 1368mm (L x W x H), the look of this M6 Convertible took on a low-slung style with unique front and rear fascias to enhance performance and aerodynamic efficiency. From the rear, the signature quad exhaust outlets poke out from beneath the prominent diffuser which even the most ignorant of motorists cannot help but take note of while the 20-inch alloy rims, which houses the blue brake calipers, complete this sporting package.
Interior
On the inside, the M6 displays a handsome and serious design aesthetic, with fire red leather upholstery and a generous amount of carbon fibre trim on the centre console as well as the side door panels. But one cannot deny, like all M cars, that the cockpit is a welcoming place that motor heads constantly fantasize about. Plus, with firm but friendly and comfortable seats, there simply isn’t a lack for adjustability.
Like the current line-up of models in BMW, buttons and switches are kept to a minimum in the M6, thanks to BMW's iDrive electronics interface that gives you quick and easy access to the car’s many infotainment functions. And it’s also through this control system where you are able to programme two preferred driving configurations.
Interior
On the inside, the M6 displays a handsome and serious design aesthetic, with fire red leather upholstery and a generous amount of carbon fibre trim on the centre console as well as the side door panels. But one cannot deny, like all M cars, that the cockpit is a welcoming place that motor heads constantly fantasize about. Plus, with firm but friendly and comfortable seats, there simply isn’t a lack for adjustability.
Like the current line-up of models in BMW, buttons and switches are kept to a minimum in the M6, thanks to BMW's iDrive electronics interface that gives you quick and easy access to the car’s many infotainment functions. And it’s also through this control system where you are able to programme two preferred driving configurations.
To simplify selecting the different modes, the steering wheel has been equipped with two M Drive buttons (or magical M buttons if you like), acting as preset ‘memory buttons’, which can be used to ‘call up’ a setup for the car.
It’s such attention to details that make the M6 feel more special than the lesser version of the 6 Series. Not to say that the 6er is lame or boring in any way but they do make this steroidal convertible worth every penny you are paying for and space isn’t excluded. Even with the roof in place, occupants will still enjoy sufficient head and legroom up front. Like the 6er, a pair of rear seats is on offer but they are better left for the occasional kids when it’s due time for a leisurely drive.
Overall, the cabin may not be as aesthetically pleasing as say the Bentley Continental GT but it’s still top notch, thanks to a very functional cockpit that has a second-to-none fit and finish.
It’s such attention to details that make the M6 feel more special than the lesser version of the 6 Series. Not to say that the 6er is lame or boring in any way but they do make this steroidal convertible worth every penny you are paying for and space isn’t excluded. Even with the roof in place, occupants will still enjoy sufficient head and legroom up front. Like the 6er, a pair of rear seats is on offer but they are better left for the occasional kids when it’s due time for a leisurely drive.
Overall, the cabin may not be as aesthetically pleasing as say the Bentley Continental GT but it’s still top notch, thanks to a very functional cockpit that has a second-to-none fit and finish.
The Drive
Although we have seen these M machines changing radically over the years, especially in the M3 and the M5, the M6 hasn’t lost much of its hardcore soul from its previous character. No doubt that it appears to be the ‘softest’ M car in the current line-up, this convertible sports an engine with 560bhp and 680Nm of torque, developing 60 horses and 160Nm of torque more than the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V10 of the previous M6 - all of which are funnelled to the road through the rear wheels.
These extra figures do help to propel the car from a standstill to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds before reaching a top speed of 250km/h. Its engine spins to its redline almost instantly, rewarding you with a muscular driving force that reminds you that it’s no ordinary 6er you’re handling.
A tickle of the throttle sends the revs soaring and the free-flow exhaust snarling through its quad tailpipes, making the sound effects and the sensation of adrenaline rush enjoyable. The new V8 gem may be less of a screamer than the superseded 10-pot powerplant but there is a lot of strength and confidence as it blasts away and guns towards the horizon effortlessly.
The M6 may not be the best handling firecracker on the twisted roads but it does throw itself into them with almost casual abandon, hooking up long sweepers and short stabbing corners with impressive nonchalance. It has ample grip too, thanks to its Michelin Pilot Super Sport footwear, piloting the course of bends in a very secured and predictable manner. Driving the M6 is almost like wearing the car - it just fits well and lends confidence to the manoeuvres you attempt while behind the wheel.
Although we have seen these M machines changing radically over the years, especially in the M3 and the M5, the M6 hasn’t lost much of its hardcore soul from its previous character. No doubt that it appears to be the ‘softest’ M car in the current line-up, this convertible sports an engine with 560bhp and 680Nm of torque, developing 60 horses and 160Nm of torque more than the naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V10 of the previous M6 - all of which are funnelled to the road through the rear wheels.
These extra figures do help to propel the car from a standstill to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds before reaching a top speed of 250km/h. Its engine spins to its redline almost instantly, rewarding you with a muscular driving force that reminds you that it’s no ordinary 6er you’re handling.
A tickle of the throttle sends the revs soaring and the free-flow exhaust snarling through its quad tailpipes, making the sound effects and the sensation of adrenaline rush enjoyable. The new V8 gem may be less of a screamer than the superseded 10-pot powerplant but there is a lot of strength and confidence as it blasts away and guns towards the horizon effortlessly.
The M6 may not be the best handling firecracker on the twisted roads but it does throw itself into them with almost casual abandon, hooking up long sweepers and short stabbing corners with impressive nonchalance. It has ample grip too, thanks to its Michelin Pilot Super Sport footwear, piloting the course of bends in a very secured and predictable manner. Driving the M6 is almost like wearing the car - it just fits well and lends confidence to the manoeuvres you attempt while behind the wheel.
More notably, swapping cogs with enthusiasm is now standard with the seven-speed M-DCT gearbox. The double-clutch bites in ferociously fast and is harder to fault as it delivers smooth shifts regardless of whether you’re in the mood for manual overwrite or in convenient auto mode.
The automatic opening and closing process for the roof can be activated both at a standstill and while on the move at speeds of up to 40km/h using a button on the centre console. It takes a good 19 seconds for the top to drop and a slightly longer 24 seconds for it to be back in place.
Of course, it isn’t exactly a suitable choice for the M6 to take its convertible form during the day, no thanks to our scorching climate. But it is nevertheless a temptation to drop its top, considering the ruckus the car will make when door-handled like a madman.
Conclusion
BMW has achieved supercar level with the M6 Convertible. It looks great regardless with its roof up or down, goes like a beast on the straights while keeping its composure round the twisties and has a well-appointed cabin. But the truth is this is a car you would admire more than you desire.
But one thing’s for sure – this car is a true blue BMW M6 and is worth every bit the M badge.
The automatic opening and closing process for the roof can be activated both at a standstill and while on the move at speeds of up to 40km/h using a button on the centre console. It takes a good 19 seconds for the top to drop and a slightly longer 24 seconds for it to be back in place.
Of course, it isn’t exactly a suitable choice for the M6 to take its convertible form during the day, no thanks to our scorching climate. But it is nevertheless a temptation to drop its top, considering the ruckus the car will make when door-handled like a madman.
Conclusion
BMW has achieved supercar level with the M6 Convertible. It looks great regardless with its roof up or down, goes like a beast on the straights while keeping its composure round the twisties and has a well-appointed cabin. But the truth is this is a car you would admire more than you desire.
But one thing’s for sure – this car is a true blue BMW M6 and is worth every bit the M badge.
Photos by Julian Kho
Car Information
BMW M6 Convertible 4.4 [Base model] (A)
CAT B|Petrol|9.7km/L
Horsepower
418kW (560 bhp)
Torque
680 Nm
Acceleration
4.3sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used BMW M6 Convertible
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