A finely calculated move
The BMW 650i convertible is an automobile targeted at a very wide consumer segment. On the one hand it is intended to seduce a sports-minded driver tempted by the drop-top Porsche 911. Others might have had in mind the roadster classic, the Mercedes SL or see themselves as style-aware individualists at the wheel of a Maserati GranCabrio or a Jaguar XK. All of which means that the new BMW 6-Series must be a real all-rounder, otherwise at this elite level it doesn’t have a chance. But the car’s DNA gives reason for optimism. The new model from the Munich manufacturer owes much to such very successful automobiles as those of the 5 and 7-Series – a finely calculated move indeed. “The 6-Series offers luxury in a modern way and superlative technology,” says the head of BMW’s development department, Dr. Klaus Dräger, “With an automobile of this calibre we can go all the way, because the buyers are prepared to pay for the best.” A nicely confident note.
-
- The BMW cockpit as one would expect, utilitarian and without pretensions. The eight-speed automatic works perfectly.
No more baroque but back to diesel
The 4.89 metres long convertible presents an attractive appearance whether open or closed. A long hood, low roof-line, wide track and big wheels – all that is needed to impress. And now that the stylists have purged the baroque flourishes from the bodywork there is a further reason to be pleased. Although the overall dimensions of the car have increased there is not much greater room inside than before – the boot still, like the preceding model, takes only from 300 to 350 litres of load and the rear seats remain very cozy. In years past the earlier model the diesel power plant was slightly controversial. BMW were courageous and installed a 286 horsepower bi-turbo into the elegant automobile. In Europe this version accounted for sixty percent of sales – the decision had been the right one. And now the new 6-Series will sooner or later be diesel powered, perhaps in both 250 and over 300 horsepower variants. Since the platform is that of the 5 and 7-Series models it would be no problem to add all-wheel-drive, much in demand by American buyers. And that there will be a future M6 sports version is an open secret.
-
- The 4.4 litre bi-turbo eight-cylinder motor produces 600 Newton metres of torque. In five seconds the convertible has hit a hundred. Averaged fuel consumption for the 650i convertible is given at a respectable 10.7 litres.
Plenty to cheer about
For the time being, however, buyers must settle for the petrol fueled 640i and 650i motorization. The top of the range is represented by the 4.4 litre bi-turbo eight-cylinder engine in a car priced at 94,300 Euros. First the roof has to be lowered. That takes only 19 seconds and the command can even be given by remote control and functions up to a speed of 40 kilometres an hour. The small glass window at the back can even be opened to give fresh air even with the top up. The 407 horsepower and the massive 600 Newton metres of torque delivered between 1,750 and 4,500 RPM pack a hefty punch. In five seconds the convertible has hit a hundred and doesn’t stop until the limiter kicks in at 250 kilometres and hour. The eight-speed automatic transmission harmonizes perfectly with the eight-cylinder engine. Averaged fuel consumption for the 650i convertible is given at a respectable 10.7 litres. There is a start-stop system only on board the 640 version. Drivers seeking fuel economy will be best off with the 640i with its six-cylinder 320 horsepower motor (starting from 83,300 Euros). Then the car’s thirst goes down to 7.9 litres.
-
- From March the ambitious and confident 640i (from 83,300 Euros) and 650i (from 94,300 Euros) models will be awaiting customers looking for big convertibles in the BMW dealerships.
A hard road ahead
Impressive dimensions, the V8 power plant, an excellent roof mechanism and all of the creature comforts add up to a total weight of two tons. And the driver who pushes the 650 hard begins to feel that burden in the otherwise agile BMW. In tight curves the advantages of the four-seater’s firm carosserie come into play and the suspension performs well, particularly with the dynamic shock absorber adjustment system, Adaptive Drive is on board, an extra costing 3,970 Euros. But nevertheless the 650i is overweight. Dynamic Performance Control with active rear axle differential will make its appearance only in the ‘M’ versions. From March the ambitious and confident 640i and 650i models will be awaiting customers looking for big convertibles in the BMW dealerships.
