2006→2010 BMW M6 Hot on the heels of the new M5, and taking lightweight design solutions from the M3 CSL, the new M6 combines supercar presence with grand touring potential. Joining an ever growing club, the fourth new M car of the decade sets a new performance benchmark for production...
BMW M6
1983 - 1989, 2005 - 2019
The BMW M6 has existed across multiple generations (E63, F06/F12/F13, and most recently, the F90). Since its inception, the M6 has been recognized for its blend of luxurious comfort, elegant design, and exhilarating performance. The M6 models have evolved through several generations, each introducing new technologies, more powerful engines, and refined designs.
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Overview
The BMW M6 stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of power, luxury, and technological innovation. From its roots as a refined grand tourer with a motorsport pedigree to its current iteration as a supercar-slaying executive express, the M6 has consistently pushed the boundaries of what a high-performance coupe can be. Let's take a tour through the generations and explore the evolution of this automotive icon.
First Generation - BMW M6/M635CSi
The E 24 was the second version of BMW's 6 cylinder coupe, which had dominated many touring championships in CSL 'Batmobile' guise. The successor was a more bland looking model, based on the shape of the first 7 series limousine. The car was available with the standard six cylinder engines ranging in displacement from 2.8 to 3.5 liter. The icing on the cake came when BMW introduced the TC-four valve engine from the mid-engined M1 in a slightly up-rated form to create the M635CSi, also referred to as the M6.
This car started the tradition of giving the sportiest version of each model range the now famous M denomination.The engine now produced 286 BHP (The M1 had originally 277 BHP, but could by tuned up to 470 BHP). The car was outwardly recognisable from the big spoiler below the front bumper. Racing versions of the car also appeared using the famous: Original Teile livery.
In a test for Road&Track in 1984 Paul Frere wrote: "This is much better than any BMW I've driven before. It is fast, civilised and the engine is beautifully smooth. In addition the ride characteristics are not at all harsh, while the handling is the best of all the BMWs we had here." In the test it did the quarter mile in 14.5 seconds.
Also known as the M6 in some markets, the M635 CSi was endowed with the same TC-four valve engine from the M1 supercar. This instantly made it the most sporty 6-Series in the line-up and started the naming scheme of using the now famous M denomination for BMW’s sportiest cars. Producing 282 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque, the 3.5L inline 6 was a smooth operator that helped the M635 CSi accelerate from 0-62 mph in 6.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 158 mph. In a 1994 test, Road&Track ran a quarter mile time of 14.5 seconds claiming it was one of the best BMW’s they had ever driven. The car was also known for it’s racing, especially when sporting the famous Teile livery of the time.
Second Generation - BMW E63/E64 M6 (2005–2010)
After a hiatus, the M6 nameplate returned with the E63/E64 generation, debuting in 2005. This generation was based on the E60 M5 and shared its high-revving 5.0-liter V10 engine, which produced 507 hp and was mated to a 7-speed SMG III transmission. Later models also offered a 6-speed manual transmission, particularly in the United States.
The M6's 5.0-liter V10 engine (S85) shared its DNA with the engines powering BMW's Formula 1 team at the time. This engine screamed to an 8250 rpm redline, producing a glorious, spine-tingling howl unique to high-revving V10s. With 500 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque on tap, the M6 delivered ferocious acceleration, especially in the higher rev ranges. The SMG III was essentially a manual gearbox with automated clutch and shifting. It offered lightning-quick shifts in its most aggressive settings. The SMG could be jerky at low speeds and demanded a different driving style than a traditional automatic. Enthusiasts were divided on its character.
This M6 was a technological marvel of its time, featuring advanced electronics like the M Drive system, allowing drivers to save personalized vehicle settings. Despite its sophisticated technology and impressive performance, including a 0-60 mph time of just over 4 seconds, it maintained the luxury expected of a 6 Series, with a well-appointed interior and a handsome, aggressive design.
The M6 demanded respect. Its combination of immense power, the quirky SMG gearbox, and a rear-wheel-drive platform could be a handful for inexperienced drivers. While thrilling when pushed, the M6 also excelled as a high-speed luxury cruiser, with surprisingly decent long-distance comfort.
Third Generation - BMW F12/F13/F06 M6 (2012–2018)
The third-generation M6 made its debut in 2012, built on the F12/F13 6 Series, and was later available in three body styles: coupe, convertible, and four-door Gran Coupe (F06).
The third-gen M6 bid goodbye to the high-revving V10 in favor of a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 (S63). Despite the smaller displacement, the V8 delivered even more power and a massive increase in torque, available much lower in the rev range.The engine delivered 560 hp (575 hp with the Competition Package) and substantial torque, paired with a 7-speed M-DCT dual-clutch transmission or an optional 6-speed manual for the North American market.
The F06/F12/F13 M6 moved away from its predecessor's divisive design language, opting for a sleeker, more muscular look. It had a long hood, flowing roofline, and a powerful stance embody the grand touring coupe silhouette. It got signature M styling cues like larger air intakes, quad exhausts, and sculpted bodywork subtly hint at the performance beneath.
The F12/F13 M6 was celebrated for its impressive acceleration, advanced technology, refined interiors, and the addition of the Gran Coupe model, which offered a perfect blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. It also boasted significant improvements in efficiency and emissions over its predecessor, without compromising on power or the M division's signature driving dynamics.
The M6's cabin was a significant step up in luxury, with high-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and cutting-edge technology. Advanced heated and ventilated seats, premium sound systems, and a suite of driver aids enhanced the grand touring experience. This generation aimed to be less polarizing than its predecessor, appealing to a broader audience seeking both luxury and performance.
This generation marked a clear shift in character for the M6. It retained immense performance while prioritizing refinement, technology, and everyday usability. Some enthusiasts mourned the loss of the V10's unique character, but the turbo V8 brought overwhelming power and accessibility. This M6 cemented its place as a luxurious grand tourer capable of astonishing performance.
1st Generation BMW M6/M635CSi
Generation: E24
Production: 1983–1989
Model Years: 1983–1989
Designer: Paul Bracq
Body: 2-door coupé
Layout: Front-engine, RWD
Engine: 3.5 L M88/S38 I6
Trans: 5-speed manual
Wheelbase: 2,620 mm (103 in)
Length: 4,755 mm (187.2 in)
Width: 1,725 mm (67.9 in)
Height: 1,354 mm (53.3 in)
2nd Generation BMW M6
Generation: E63/64
Production: 2005-2011
Model Years: 2005-2011
Designer: Adrian van Hooydonk
Body: 2-door convertible (E64)
Body: 2-door coupé (E63)
Layout: Front-engine, RWD
Engine: 5.0 L S85 V10
Trans: 7-speed SMG-III, 6-speed manual (U.S only)
Wheelbase: 2,781 mm (109.5 in)
Length: 4,872 mm (191.8 in)
Width: 1,854 mm (73.0 in)
Height: 1,377 mm (54.2 in)
3rd Generation BMW M6
Generation: F06/F12/F13
Production: 2012-2019
Model Years: 2013-2019
Designer: Nader Faghihzadeh
Body: 2-door convertible (F12)
Body: 2-door coupé (F13)
Body: 4-door sedan (F06)
Layout: Front-engine, RWD
Engine: 4.4 L S63 twin-turbo V8
Trans: 7-speed manual, 6-speed manual
Wheelbase: 2,850 mm (112.2 in)
Length: 4,897 mm (192.8 in)
Width: 1,919 mm (75.56 in)
Height: 1,369 mm (53.9 in)
"That V10 wail is pure motorsport magic. The M6 turns every commute into a trip to Le Mans."
SportsCarDigest
"The 2019 M6 embodies sophistication and savagery. A true executive express with the heart of a supercar."
VintageRoad&Race