BMW Faqs

For 2007, the two 6 Series models are the 650i Coupe, at $74,595 including destination charge; and the 650i Convertible at $81,595. Each is powered by the same 4.8-liter, 360-hp Valvetronic V-8 found in the ‘07 750i/Li and 550i models, backed by one of three 6-speed transmissions: conventional manual, STEPTRONIC automatic or Sequential Manual Gearbox.

After some significant powertrain improvements last year including the new 360-hp 4.8-liter V-8 changes for ’07 are relatively few. The most striking is the addition of a new interior option, Pearl leather. This new treatment includes a softer, more supple quality to the upholstery, complemented by a distinctive stitching. Available in either Black or Cream Beige, the option also adds special black Nasca leather to the sun blinds and center console.

In addition, a new auxiliary input for an iPod or MP3 player is now standard. Stand-alone options now include HD radio and the Logic7 Sound System. This last was part of the Premium Sound Package last year, which also included a 6-disc CD changer.

The Premium Sound Package has been deleted, to provide 6 Series owners with the flexibility to install the BMW accessory CD changer or the new accessory Interface for iPod, based on their personal preference and listening habits.

The heritage of today’s 6 Series goes back to October 1937, when BMW introduced an elegant cabriolet called the 327. Low-built even by today’s standards and seating just two persons, the 327 was powered by a 2-liter inline 6-cylinder engine, whose 55 horsepower powered it to 78 mph a brisk speed for the late Thirties. A coupe version followed shortly thereafter, as did a new and more powerful engine.

In 1956, BMW unveiled the 503 coupe and cabriolet, designed by Count Albrecht Goertz  who, in the same period, designed the immortal BMW 507 roadster. Their V-8 engine delivered 140 hp from 3.2 liters and powered the 503s to the handsome top speed of 118 mph; in those days as now, one could drive legally at top speed on Germany’s Autobahnen.

The next coupe, a smaller one, appeared in 1965; its exterior design, especially that of its “greenhouse” or passenger cabin, related closely to Bertone’s 3200 CS look. Powered by a 4-cylinder engine in 2-liter form, it came in two forms 2000 C with 100 hp, 2000 CS with 120 hp.

In 1968, BMW re-entered the 6-cylinder luxury segment with the new 2500/2800 sedans; a coupe version followed soon thereafter. It was called 2800 CS, and over the years of its production (until ’75), it evolved into many forms, including the 3.0 CS, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful BMWs ever made. For its fans, this Series is simply “the CS.”

The first 6 Series succeeded the CS. Longer, wider and lower than its predecessor. After its U.S. debut in ’77, it eventually evolved into the 635CSi and, with the mighty BMW M 6-cylinder engine, the M6. Though not exactly a lineal ancestor of the new 6 Series, the 8 Series is BMW’s most recent performance-luxury coupe. Over the years of its production (1990-97), it appeared in several forms, from the V-8 840Ci through the 372-hp, V-12 850CSi.