Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

The scene is now set for the BMW M car driving experience at its most exclusive. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe high-performance sports car is a vision of poise and assurance, combining supreme performance with captivating aesthetics and luxurious elegance. The new BMW M GmbH flagship is powered by a high-revving V8 engine that boasts M TwinPower Turbo technology, develops 412 kW/560 hp and propels the BMW M6 Gran Coupe from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds. The performance characteristics of the car’s engine, its chassis technology, aerodynamic properties and weight balance – which the carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof helps to optimise – are intertwined with hallmark M precision. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe therefore represents not only a new experience of luxury in an M car, but also the ultimate expression of the dynamic potential embedded in the BMW 6 Series.

The company’s foray into this new segment of high-performance luxury four-door coupes provides a window into the passion of the engineers and designers at BMW M GmbH for creating extraordinary driving experiences out of the top drawer. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe presents the finest balance of inspirational design, sports-oriented performance and luxurious ambience in its class. Its extra interior space allows two rear passengers to enjoy generous levels of long-distance comfort, while the rear compartment of the BMW M6 Gran Coupe also offers a third rear seat suitable for use over shorter journeys.

Design: the beauty of majestic power delivery.

Hallmark M design features influenced directly by technical considerations – such as cooling air requirements, chassis geometry, weight balance and aerodynamics – open a clear window into the performance capability of the BMW M6 Gran Coupe. The front of the car is dominated by its large air intakes, standard Adaptive LED Headlights and an M kidney grille designed especially for this model. From the side, the first four-door Coupe in the BMW M GmbH ranks is clearly distinguishable from the BMW M6 Coupe thanks to its rear doors and 113-millimetre longer wheelbase. The low roofline flowing smoothly into the rear, the swage line – which takes in the door openers – and side windows extending well into the C-pillars accentuate the dynamically stretched silhouette.

Prominently flared wheel arches draw the eye to a track width specific to the BMW M6 Gran Coupe. The characteristic M gills, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, standard BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line package and exclusive 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design underline the car’s distinctive appearance, as does another M signature – twin exhaust tailpipes positioned on the outer edges of the rear apron. Also integrated into the rear apron, and charged with the task of optimising airflow along the car’s underbody, is a diffuser made from CFRP.

This extremely lightweight, impressively strong high-tech material is used in the construction of the roof as well. Here, the visible carbon structure provides an eye-catching feature, as does a dynamic recess in the centre of the roof. This recess is referenced stylistically inside the car, the anthracite-coloured Alcantara roof liner gaining a central section in leather.

Emulating the harmonious blend of athletic prowess and elegance embodied by the exterior design, the distinctively M cockpit fuses sports car style with generous levels of space and a luxurious ambience. The driver and front passenger can look forward to M sports seats with integral belt guides. And the BMW M6 Gran Coupe’s standard specification also includes Merino leather upholstery with extended features. The rear compartment offers two or three seats, the backrests of which can split and fold down in a ratio of 40 : 60 to increase boot capacity from 460 to as much as 1,265 litres.

V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, seven-speed
M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic, Active M Differential.

The powertrain technology under the skin of the BMW M6 Gran Coupe guarantees the performance characteristics for which M Automobiles are renowned. The V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology produces 412 kW/560 hp. Its technical wizardry includes a pair of twin-scroll turbochargers, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos continuously variable camshaft control. The 4,395 cc unit keeps peak torque of 680 Newton metres (502 lb-ft) on tap between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm, while maximum output is developed between 6,000 and 7,000 rpm. The engine revs to a maximum of 7,200 rpm. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe sprints from
0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.2 seconds on the way to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h/155 mph (305 km/h/189 mph if the optional M Driver’s Package is specified). Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres (28.5 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions are 232 grams per kilometre.

Taking care of power transfer is a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with Drivelogic. The transmission’s electronic management system ensures the right gear is selected for optimum traction. It also offers the driver a Launch Control function for maximum acceleration, Low Speed Assistance for extra comfort and the Auto Start-Stop function to enhance efficiency.

Under particularly dynamic acceleration out of corners, as well as in tricky road and weather conditions, the Active M Differential at the rear axle distributes the engine’s power between the individual wheels to maximum traction-enhancing effect. Its electronically controlled multi-disc limited-slip differential works hand-in-hand with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system and splits drive between the right and left rear wheels quickly and precisely according to the situation at hand.

Chassis technology developed to M specification.

The chassis technology of the BMW M6 Gran Coupe is also geared to harnessing the car’s sporting potential in the cause of supreme performance. Like the integral rear axle, the double-wishbone front axle has specific kinematics and components made from forged aluminium. Chassis mountings using large panels ensure dynamic forces are passed evenly through to the body. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe comes as standard with an M-specific version of the Dynamic Damper Control system and hydraulic variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering with the M Servotronic function.

As an alternative to the standard high-performance compound braking system, the BMW M6 Gran Coupe can also be ordered with M carbon-ceramic brakes. Made from a new type of carbon-fibre compound ceramic, the discs boast even greater resistance to heat, lower weight and exceptional resistance to wear.

Arranged around the gearshift lever on the centre console of the
BMW M6 Gran Coupe are the buttons used to configure all the adjustable powertrain and chassis functions to personal tastes. The DSC mode,
engine performance characteristics, Dynamic Damper Control mapping,
M Servotronic responses and M DCT Drivelogicshift program can be selected independently of each other. All of which means the driver can put together a detailed set-up and store those settings on one of the two M Drive buttons on the multifunction steering wheel.

Exclusive and individual: high-quality range of equipment.

The standard equipment fitted on the BMW M6 Gran Coupe includes
20-inch M light-alloy wheels, leather trim, heated driver and front passenger seats, automatically dimming rear-view and exterior mirrors, an alarm system and the BMW Professional radio with hi-fi loudspeakers. Available as an alternative to the standard 2-zone automatic climate control is a 4-zone system with a control panel in the rear compartment. Among the other highlights of the options list are M multifunction seats, heated rear seats, Comfort Access, a heated steering wheel, the Soft Close Automatic function for the doors, electrically operated sun blinds, the new generation of the Professional navigation system and a Bang & Olufsen High End Surround Sound System.

The BMW M6 Gran Coupe also comes with a variety of BMW ConnectedDrive features, such as an M-specific BMW Head-Up Display, Park Distance Control, a rear-view camera, High Beam Assistant, Speed Limit Info, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Surround View and BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition. Customers can also integrate their Apple iPhone or other smartphones into the car and make use of internet-based services while on board.

The new BMW M6 Gran Coupé becomes the third distinctive design to be added to the M6 model range. The newest member of the M6 family brings together M performance characteristics with extra luxury and aesthetic appeal. Hallmark M design features directly influence this car’s technical considerations and provide a window into its performance capabilities.  Air cooling, chassis geometry, weight balance and aerodynamics have all dictated the striking muscular form of the car. Meanwhile, under its bonnet a high-revving 560hp V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology propel the BMW M6 Gran Coupé in true supercar performance style.

*Electronically-limited.

The front of the BMW M6 Gran Coupé is dominated by its large air intakes, standard Adaptive LED headlights and an M Chrome fronted kidney grille designed specifically for this model. From the side, the first four-door Coupé from BMW M GmbH is clearly distinguishable from the BMW M6 Coupé thanks to its rear doors and longer wheelbase. The low roofline flows smoothly into the rear, the side line – which takes in the door openers – and side windows extend well into the C-pillars accentuating the dynamically stretched silhouette.

Prominently flared wheel arches draw the eye to a wide track width specific to the BMW M6 Gran Coupé. The characteristic M gills, aerodynamically optimised exterior mirrors, High-gloss Shadow Line and exclusive 20-inch M light-alloy wheels underline the car’s distinctive appearance, as does another M signature – twin exhaust tailpipes positioned on the outer edges of the rear apron. Also integrated into the rear apron is a diffuser made from Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic which optimises airflow along the car’s underbody.

This lightweight, strong high-tech material is used in the roof as well. The visible carbon structure provides an eye-catching feature, as does a dynamic recess in the centre of the roof. Inside and the double curve roof profile is mirrored with an anthracite-coloured Alcantara headlining separated by a central section in leather.

M Sport seats for the driver and passenger come as standard as does extended Merino leather upholstery. The rear seats, comprising two adult seats and one occasional use seat, have backrests that can split and fold down in a ratio of 40:60 to increase boot capacity from 460 litres to as much as 1,265 litres.

M – The most powerful letter in the world

The powertrain technology under the skin of the BMW M6 Gran Coupé guarantees renowned M performance. The V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology produces 560hp. It includes a pair of twin-scroll turbochargers, a cross-bank exhaust manifold, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-Vanos continuously variable camshaft control. The 4,395cc unit keeps peak torque of 680Nm on tap between 1,500 and 5,750rpm, while maximum output is developed between 6,000 and 7,000rpm. The engine revs to a maximum of 7,200rpm. The BMW M6 Gran Coupé sprints from zero to 62mph in 4.2 seconds on

the way to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle stands at 28.5mpg and CO2 emissions are 232g/km.

Taking care of power transfer is a seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission with DRIVELOGIC. The transmission’s electronic management system ensures the right gear is selected for optimum traction. It also offers the driver a Launch Control function for maximum acceleration, Low Speed Assistance for extra comfort and the Auto Start-Stop function to enhance efficiency.

Chassis

Under particularly dynamic acceleration out of corners, as well as in tricky road and weather conditions, the Active M Differential at the rear axle distributes the engine’s power between the individual wheels to maximum traction. Its electronically controlled multi-disc limited-slip differential works together with the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system and splits drive between the right and left rear wheels quickly and precisely according to the situation at hand.

The chassis in the BMW M6 Gran Coupé is geared to harnessing the car’s sporting potential in cases of supreme performance. Like the integral rear axle, the double-wishbone front axle has specific kinematics and components made from forged aluminium. Large panel chassis mountings ensure dynamic forces are passed evenly through to the body. The BMW M6 Gran Coupé comes as standard with an M-specific version of the Variable Damper Control (VDC) system and hydraulic variable-ratio rack-and-pinion steering with M Servotronic.

As an alternative to the standard high-performance compound braking system, the BMW M6 Gran Coupé can also be ordered with optional M Carbon ceramic brakes.

Made from carbon-fibre compound ceramic, the discs boast even greater resistance to heat, lower weight and exceptional resistance to wear.

Arranged around the gearshift lever on the centre console are the buttons used to configure the adjustable powertrain and chassis functions. The DSC mode, engine performance characteristics, Variable Damper Control mapping, M Servotronic responses and M DCT DRIVELOGIC shift program can be selected independently of each other. This allows the driver to put together a detailed set-up and store these settings on one of the two M Drive buttons on the multi-function steering wheel.

The standard equipment fitted to the BMW M6 Gran Coupé includes 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, leather trim, heated driver and front passenger seats, automatically dimming rear-view and exterior mirrors, BMW Professional Multimedia Navigation system and BMW Professional radio. Available as an alternative to the standard two-zone automatic climate control is a four-zone system with a control panel in the rear. Among the other highlights of the options list are M Multi-function seats, heated rear seats, Comfort Access, a heated steering wheel, the Soft Close Automatic function for the doors, electrically operated sun blinds and a Bang & Olufsen Advanced Audio system.

The BMW M6 Gran Coupé also comes with a variety of BMW ConnectedDrive features such as an M-specific BMW Head-up Display and Park Distance Control as standard. A rear-view camera, High Beam Assistant, Speed Limit Info, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Surround View and BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition are optionally available. Customers can also integrate their Apple iPhone or other smartphones into the car and make use of internet-based services while on board.

The BMW M6 Gran Coupé will go on sale from 25 May, 2013, priced from £97,490 OTR.

Ends

The new BMW M6 Coupé and M6 Convertible will be seen for the first time in the UK at The Goodwood Festival of Speed 28 June - 1 July 2012. Powered by the latest V8 M TwinPower Turbo engine producing 560hp, both new models will run up the famous 1.16 mile hill and will help mark the 40th anniversary of BMW’s high-performance M division. Along with a selection of the Bavarian manufacturer’s hottest current M cars showcased in the BMW pavilion, Goodwood will provide the perfect stage to celebrate 40 years of M.

The new BMW M6 Coupé and M6 Convertible models represent the most recent expression of the BMW M philosophy. These bold 6 Series flagship models offer searing performance and sporting dynamics, combined with supreme long-distance touring manners and everyday usability.  With near 50:50 weight distribution and optimised aerodynamics the latest BMW M6 offers an intense M experience.

Bespoke M design, a driver-focused cabin and cutting edge in-car technology, makes the new M6 the most desirable yet, whether ordered with the lightweight carbon-fibre roof or the elegant retractable soft top. 

The new BMW M6 Coupé and M6 Convertible are equipped with the same high-revving, turbocharged V8 engine as the M5 Saloon. This revolutionary powerplant not only produces 53hp more than its ten-cylinder predecessor at 560hp, but it also benefits from a greatly improved torque output over a broad band of revs. It’s this 680Nm, available from as low as 1,500rpm to 5,750rpm, that not only gives the new M6 its stunning outright acceleration, but also its commanding flexibility on-road.

The result is a 0-62mph sprint of just 4.2 seconds for the M6 Coupé, with the M6 Convertible following at 4.3 seconds. Both versions have a top speed limited to 155mph. The new M6 Coupé and Convertible go on sale in the UK on 15 September 2012, with the Coupé costing £93,820 and the Convertible £99,020.

Driving the M6 Convertible in the super car run will be one of the UK’s best known television presenters and ex-racing driver, Tiff Needell. Steering the M6 Coupé up the hill will be British Touring Car Championship driver, Tom Onslow-Cole.

Whilst Tiff and Tom will be aiming for a quick run up the hill, they will also be in the BMW pavilion for interviews and autographs. They will be joined by legendary Formula 1 commentator, Murray Walker, and by one of the UK’s best ever international racing drivers, Steve Soper. On stand too will be Superbike World Champion, Troy Corser, when he’s not riding the BMW R90S TT up Goodwood’s famous hill.

BMW celebrates 40 years of M

For 40 years, BMW M has brought the thrill and flair of motor-racing to the road with the world's most powerful letter – M. Racetrack performance and road dominance has given BMW M owners the unique reward of having the best of both worlds. Since its creation in 1972, BMW M has grown to become the most successful high-performance division in the automotive world.

To celebrate this key anniversary a plethora of M models, including the new M6 Coupé, will showcase in the BMW pavilion together with other new and potent models from the BMW range.

The BMW pavilion will host three unique examples of the BMW M3. The first is the BMW M3 DTM race car, currently competing in the 2012 DTM season - one of the world’s most exciting and competitive touring car championships. The BMW M3 DTM heralds the return of BMW to the DTM race series after an absence of nearly 20 years.

Alongside this spectacular racing car, but also not for sale, is the M3 Chrome Bullet – a show car finished in a full chrome exterior and accentuated with BMW Motorsport stripes. Complementing the M3 line up is a new BMW M3 Performance Edition. Built by BMW M GmbH solely for the UK market, and costing £74,080 OTR, just thirty of these exclusive cars are available to buy.

Also on display will be a new BMW 1 Series 3-door M135i. Costing £29,995 OTR, the M135i is a true M Performance vehicle - designed with aerodynamics in mind while also exhibiting BMW M design flair. The powerful M Performance unit, the 3.0-litre M Performance TwinPower Turbo engine, is not only exceptionally powerful but also lag-free, high revving and efficient. The result is an impressive 320hp at 5,800rpm and torque peaking over a wide rev band: 450Nm from 1,300-4,500rpm. Such performance gives the M135i a 0-62mph time of just 5.1 seconds (4.9 seconds with the optional sports automatic transmission) and a top speed electronically limited to 155mph.

The eagerly anticipated BMW 3 Series with M Sport trim will also be at Goodwood. M Sport trim specification builds on the striking styling of the 3 Series and its agile and dynamic character, through a combination of unique interior and exterior design changes and suspension upgrades. M Sport is now available across the majority of variants of the BMW 3 Series Saloon for £3,000 over the cost of the SE model.

On stand too will be a potent BMW X6 M50d, an example from the new performance range from BMW which is designed to bridge the gap between M Sport variants and the outright M high-performance models. The BMW X6 M50d, costs from £62,280 OTR, and features the most powerful diesel ever to come from BMW. The 2,993cc six-cylinder in-line engine has three turbochargers and offers 381hp and an impressive 740Nm of torque, with a 0-62mph of only 5.3 seconds.

BMW in the Moving Motor Show

Once again, The Goodwood Festival of Speed will present the Moving Motor Show. This exclusive event, on Thursday 28 June, enables participating manufacturers to invite selected customers, media and corporate clients to a privileged preview of the Festival and to drive production cars up the hill.

This year, and to reflect the 40 years of M theme, the M5 Saloon will be in action whilst at the BMW Moving Motor Show stand, the legendary M1 will be showcased with two unique examples of M product– a BMW M3 Group A DTM race car (kindly provided by amateur racing driver, Andrew Busby) and a BMW M635CSi (generously loaned by BMW Car Club).

The M3 was the most successful racing car of all time winning a huge number of races and over 40 championships between 1987 and 1992, whilst the classical M635CSi proved to be a real wolf in sheep’s clothing. Using a more powerful version of the BMW M1 engine, this was the third model to bear the now famous M badge and was powered by BMW’s thoroughbred 24-valve, six cylinder engine.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is being held from 28 June - 1 July 2012. Representing BMW Group UK will be Martin Harrison, Media Relations Officer, on 07525 977083. Additional members of the team will be available on the following days:

Thursday:

Gavin Ward, BMW Media Relations Manager                                   + 44 7901 951 512

Friday:

Wieland Bruch, Corporate Communications Manager          + 44 7525 977 067

Sunday:

Sarah Heaney, MINI Media Relations Manager                     + 44 7824 417 597

Ends

The BMW Group

The BMW Group is one of the most successful manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles in the world with its BMW, MINI, Husqvarna Motorcycles  and Rolls-Royce brands. As a global company, the BMW Group operates 25 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries and has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2011, the BMW Group sold about1.67 million cars and more than 113,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax for the financial year 2010 was euro 4.8 billion on revenues amounting to euro 60.5 billion. At 31 December 2010, the BMW Group had a workforce of approximately 95,500 employees.

www.bmwgroup.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BMWUK

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BMWGroup

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/BMWUK

For further information please contact:

Martin Harrison                    Media Relations Officer

Tel: 01344 480493             Email: Martin.Harrison@bmw.co.uk

Gavin Ward                           BMW Media Relations Manager
Tel:  01344 480829            Email: Gavin.Ward@bmw.co.uk

Wieland Bruch                      Product Communications Manager

Tel: 01344 480113             Email: Wieland.Bruch@bmw.co.uk

Graham Biggs                       Corporate Communications Director

Tel:  01344 480109            Email:  Graham.Biggs@bmw.co.uk

Press office fax:                    01344 480306

Media website:                    www.press.bmwgroup.co.uk
Customer website:              www.bmw.co.uk

The new BMW M6 Coupé and M6 Convertible models represent the most recent expression of the BMW M philosophy, having sold over 14,000 examples of the previous generation worldwide. 

Powered by the latest V8 M TwinPower Turbo engine producing 560hp, these bold 6 Series flagship models offer searing performance and sporting dynamics, combined with supreme long-distance touring manners and everyday usability.  With near 50:50 weight distribution and optimised aerodynamics the latest BMW M6 offers an intense M experience.

Thanks to BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies and the range of measures this incorporates, the new M6 is both cleaner and 30 per cent more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, despite being significantly faster and more powerful.

Bespoke M design, a driver-focused cabin and cutting edge in-car technology, makes the new M6 the most desirable yet, whether ordered with the lightweight carbon-fibre roof or the elegant retractable soft top. 

*  Electronically limited           

Note: This press release is a 1:1 copy of the original issued by BMW headquarters in Germany. No adaptations have been made to cater for the UK market.

Munich. BMW M GmbH has announced the end of production of the BMW M6 Coupé and the BMW M6 Convertible. The two high-performance models provide the most exclusive opportunity to experience on normal roads the hallmark athleticism of M vehicles combined with drive and chassis technology inspired by the world of motor racing. In total 14,152 examples of these high-performance sports cars were built: 9,087 units of the Coupé, which launched in 2005; and 5,065 Convertible models, presented the following year.

With the departure of these two fascinating and exceptional athletes and the already discontinued fourth-generation BMW M5, production will now also cease for the unique V10 high-rev engine. For years the 373 kW/507 hp powerplant has set the benchmark for delivering sheer power in cars that are both highly dynamic in character and symbolic of the outstanding expertise of BMW M GmbH in developing high-performance engines. For two years in succession, 2005 and 2006, the ten-cylinder unit took overall victory in the prestigious Engine of the Year Award, and in the two years that followed achieved first place on each occasion in the category for engines with displacement above 4 litres.

The stand-out feature of this unique engine, developed exclusively for the BMW M5 and BMW M6 models, is power delivery that is both extremely dynamic and smooth even at higher loads. Output is developed from a 5-litre displacement split between ten combustion chambers, with the two banks of cylinders cranked at 90 degrees to one another. The engine delivers maximum output at 7,750 rpm, with engine speed eventually peaking at 8,250 rpm, and it has maximum torque of 520 Nm. In addition to the high-rev concept, a number of other technological details – electronically-controlled individual throttle valves, an ionic current control system and lateral force-controlled oil supply – were also directly derived from motor racing.

In much the same way, design principles of chassis technology and lightweight construction also found their way from the race track to the road. In the case of the BMW M6 Coupé, for example, carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) – a material that largely owes its introduction in the automotive sector to Formula One – was used in both the roof and bumper design. Its power-to-weight ratio of 3.37 kilograms per hp is another unbeatable key indicator in the profile of the BMW M6 Coupé. Moreover, its outstanding performance characteristics are additionally supported by seven-speed SMG Drivelogic and Launch Control for maximum acceleration from a standing start, the speed-sensitive variable M differential lock, and model-specific chassis technology, including Electronic Damper Control (EDC) and compound brakes. Standstill to 100 km/h acceleration time is a mere 4.6 seconds. The BMW M6 Convertible takes just 0.2 seconds longer, giving the driver time to appreciate not only the thrilling dynamic performance but also the irresistible flair of an open-top premium sports car in the luxury class.

The BMW M6 Coupé and BMW M6 Convertible received worldwide acclaim as dream cars for automotive enthusiasts with sporting ambitions. The number one market for both models was the US, which recorded sales of 3,528 closed and 3,247 open-top vehicles, followed by Germany (1,183 / 541 units). In third position for sales of the BMW M6 Coupé came Great Britain and Ireland, with 619 vehicle registrations; in the case of the BMW M6 Convertible it was Canada, with 209 units sold.

Sales of the BMW M5 followed a similar pattern. The United States once again came out on top, with sales of 8,786 vehicles. Then, after the domestic market of Germany (2,473 units), Great Britain and Ireland generated the next highest demand on the continent of Europe, with 1,980 vehicles. In total the BMW M5 recorded global sales of over 20,000 cars in under five years, with current figures of 19,494 units for the BMW M5 Saloon and a further 1,009 units for the BMW M5 Touring, available since 2007.

The total combined figures for the fourth-generation BMW M5 exceed even those of its predecessor model, which was in production for six years. With that it has secured the current high point in the success story of the BMW M5, the first generation of which established the vehicle segment of high-performance saloons at its introduction in 1984.

The new BMW M6 Convertible Contents 1. The BMW M6 Convertible: Introduction 2. Exterior and Interior 3. Market and History 4. Drivetrain 5. Chassis 6. Safety 7. Standard equipment 8. Optional equipment 9. Technical specifications 10. Torque curves

1. The BMW M6 Convertible : Introduction

BMW's fastest ever soft-top, the new BMW M6 Convertible, takes centre stage at
the British International Motor Show. On sale in September 2006 and powered by
BMW's multi-award-winning 5.0-litre V10 engine, the new M6 Convertible brings
the joy of open-topped motoring to BMW's M6 űber-Coupé.

With an engine that takes its inspiration from Formula One, the new BMW M6
Convertible promises owners one of the fastest open-top cars available. But
the M6 Convertible is more than a one-trick pony. It is officially powered by
the best engine in the world. Its V10 powerplant has been awarded the coveted
International Engine of the Year title for the second successive year - a first
in the history of the awards.

The new car also heralds the first time an M version of a BMW 6 Series
Convertible has been built and three examples of this new car take pride of
place in the BMW Group Plaza at the British International Motor Show.

See download for table for table of perfrmoance data and cost.

Drivetrain:
Powered by a 4,999cc V10 engine developing 507hp, the M6 Convertible engine is
a technical tour de force. Using BMW's innovative Bi-VANOS variable valve
technology and individual throttle butterflies on each of the engine's 10
cylinders for optimum breathing, the M6 Convertible delivers true supercar
performance. The 0-62mph sprint is achieved in 4.8 seconds before going on to
an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph. Unchecked, the car could
continue to a top speed approaching 200mph.

Managing the engine's operation is the MS S65 engine management system, the
most advanced electronic control unit ever fitted to a car. Capable of up to
200 million individual calculations per second - a record for a production car
- the unit, along with associated electronic components, monitors the entire
operation of the engine from throttle inputs to exhaust gas management. Other
innovations include engine oil pumps designed to operate despite the high
g-forces generated by the M6 Convertible, a unique exhaust construction that
improves engine efficiency and the extensive use of lightweight materials that
save weight.

Power is fed to the rear wheels via a seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox
(SMG) with Drivelogic - the world's first such transmission and one that has
already seen service in the BMW M5 and the M6 Coupé. The SMG system's
Drivelogic function offers the driver a choice of 11 different gear change
options - five in auto mode and six in manual mode - each offering a different
speed of gearshift. On its fastest setting, the driver of an M6 Convertible can
make gear changes in just 50 milliseconds - a much faster time than could be
achieved by an experienced driver using a conventional manual gear box.

Lightweight Design:
The new BMW M6 Convertible showcases many lightweight materials that reduce
unsprung weight, thereby improving ride and handling while minimising
consumption and emissions figures. Thermoplastic front wings and Sheet Moulding
Compound, another form of hi-tech plastic, form the boot lid and spoiler, and
reduce unwanted mass. The use of lightweight aluminium components throughout
the car saves further weight while retaining the same levels of strength
offered by heavier steel.

In comparison to a standard 6 Series Convertible, the M-variant has revised
front, side and rear bodywork for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency and to help
engine cooling. BMW M's signature quad exhaust pipes protrude from the restyled
rear valance. The M6 Convertible also features a triple-layered hood with a
middle component of polyurethane (PUR) foam for the most refined closed-roof
driving. The hood has also been designed so that the roof-up profile has a near
identical silhouette as the M6 Coupé.

Chassis;
Even with its soft-top configuration, the M6 Convertible offers one of the most
rigid chassis available. BMW's renowned Variable M differential, used on all
current BMW M cars, ensures the BMW M6 Convertible offers the driver the
highest levels of traction and stability. The Variable M differential permits
up to 100 per cent of drive to be fed to a single rear wheel to optimise
traction. In its optimum MDynamic Mode, as a part of the Dynamic Stability
Control system, it permits a greater degree of wheel slip for safe and exciting
driving.

BMW's familiar double joint strut front axle is used on the M6 Convertible,
while, at the rear, an integral axle with longitudinal arms with springs and
dampers feature. In common with all previous BMW M developed cars, the BMW M6
Convertible is fitted with a hydraulically assisted rack and pinion steering.
For ease of driving and manoeuvrability at slow speeds, the steering system is
supplemented by BMW's Servotronic speed-proportional steering system.

Safety:
The BMW M6 Convertible offers the highest standards of passive safety.
A-pillars made of high-strength steel and rollbars behind the rear headrests
form a top-level safety cell in the event of a rollover. Active rear seat head
restraints also pop-up in extreme circumstances should the Dynamic Stability
Control system detect an imminent rollover to provide the optimum occupant
protection. The M6 Convertible is designed with deformable body panels to
absorb impact energy while high strength steel is used at key points of the
chassis to prevent any intrusions into the passenger compartment.

Fitted as standard with four airbags, the driver's and front seat passenger's
intelligent airbags offer two-stage deployment, depending on severity of
impact. The safety belts on all four seats come with belt force limiters and
the integrated restraint systems on the front seats also feature belt latch
tensioners.

The M6 Convertible is also equipped with Adaptive Headlights as standard. This
innovative system turns the car's headlights in relation to steering input by
up to 15 degrees when cornering. As a result, the direction the car is
travelling is illuminated for greater nighttime visibility. The M6 Convertible
is further equipped with Brake Force Display and Head-up Display. The former
illuminates additional lights at the rear during heavy braking to warn other
road users, while the latter system displays speed, navigation, cruise control
settings and check control messages in the driver's line of sight for safer
driving.

With no spare wheel and tyre, the M6 Convertible features BMW's Tyre Puncture
Warning System (TPWS) and a second generation M Mobility System (MMS). The
former gives an audible and visual warning if a loss of tyre pressure is
detected, while the latter provides the driver with a get-you-home method of
tyre repair.

Market and history:
The M6 Convertible is unique - it is BMW's first ever M-badged high performance
6 Series Convertible and comes to the market at a time when demand for soft-top
cars has never been greater. In 1993 UK car buyers bought 22,510 soft-top
vehicles, while in 2005 108,618 convertibles were sold.

The UK has traditionally been the third largest worldwide market for M-cars and
the second largest European market for soft-tops. The introduction of the M6
Convertible is, therefore, a logical step for BMW. The M6 Convertible promises
to be one of BMW's most exclusive cars and, in its first full year, BMW UK
expects to sell 150 cars.

BMW's fastest ever soft-top, the BMW M6 Convertible, will make its debut at the
British International Motor Show (July 18 - 30). Powered by the award-winning
5.0-litre V10 engine and using a host of F1-derived technology, the BMW M6
Convertible combines all the performance of the M6 Coupé but with the added
luxury of open-air motoring.

The M6 Convertible goes on sale in the UK in September 2006. It becomes the
first ever BMW to make a British Motor Show debut and it is the first time a
BMW M version of a 6 Series Convertible has been built.

The new open-top M6 uses BMW's 4,999cc V10 powerplant developing 507hp. This
powers the car from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds before going on to an electronically
limited top speed of 155mph. Unchecked, the car could continue to a top speed
approaching 200mph. Its sheer performance, alongside the engine's technological
advancements, are just two of the reasons the worldwide judging panel of the
International Engine of the Year voted the M6's 5.0-litre V10 engine the world'
s best for the second year in succession - a new landmark in the history of the
awards.

Drive is via a seven-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox with Drivelogic - the
world's first such transmission that has already seen service in the BMW M5 and
the M6 Coupé. The BMW M6 Convertible's Drivelogic function offers the driver a
choice of 11 different gear change options - five in auto mode and six in
manual mode - each offering a different speed of gear shift. In its fastest
setting, the driver of an M6 Convertible can make gear changes in just 50
milliseconds - far faster than can be achieved by an experienced driver using a
conventional manual gearbox.

Even with these high levels of performance, the new M6 Convertible achieves a
fuel consumption figure of 18.6mpg on the combined cycle and a CO2 emissions
figure of 366g/km.

BMW's renowned Variable M Differential and BMW M's version of the Dynamic
Stability Control (DSC) system provide the highest levels of traction and the
ultimate dynamic capability. The Variable M Differential permits up to 100 per
cent of drive forces to be fed to one rear wheel to optimise traction while the
DSC system, in its optimum M Dynamic Mode, permits a greater degree of wheel
slip for even higher levels of performance.

To ensure a refined interior, the BMW M6 Convertible comes with a
triple-layered hood for the ultimate in noise and heat insulation and, like
other 6 Series Convertible models, also incorporates a Fin Structure roof for a
Coupé-like silhouette. This triple-layered hood contains a middle component of
polyurethane (PUR) foam. The resulting fabric sandwich gives the car near
identical standards of acoustics and thermal insulation as a fixed-head coupé.

Intelligent soft-top design also allows a large luggage compartment. Three
hundred litres of capacity is available with the roof down. With the roof
closed and the flexible soft-top storage compartment folded up, luggage
capacity expands to an even more generous 350 litres.

In line with BMW M's ethos of marrying high levels of naturally-aspirated
engine output with the intelligent use of lightweight materials, the M6
Convertible showcases several special technologies. The front wings are made
of Thermoplastic, a material lighter than aluminium but also flexible enough to
allow for minor bumps, while the front and rear bumpers are constructed from
carbon-fibre for durability. The rear bootlid and soft-top hood cover are made
from Sheet Moulding Compound, another flexible lightweight material. The
remainder of the bodywork is a mix of steel and aluminium while many of the car'
s mechanical components are also made from weight-saving aluminium. These
materials combine to ensure that the M6 Convertible retains BMW's renowned
50:50 weight distribution for optimum balance and agility.

To complete the sporting design of the M6 Convertible, it features bespoke
19-inch double spoke light alloy wheels shod with low profile performance tyres
- 255/40 R19 at the front with 285/35 R19 at the rear. Large vented and drilled
high performance brakes deliver excellent stopping power. The front discs
measure 374mm in diameter while the rears are 370mm.

The front and rear styling also highlights the dramatic stance of the M6
Convertible when compared with the 'standard' 6 Series Convertible. BMW M's
signature quad exhaust pipes also protrude from the restyled rear valance that
delivers enhanced aerodynamic efficiency and drivetrain cooling.

Prices for the M6 Convertible and full specification details will be announced
nearer the launch date.
Ends

The new BMW M6 Contents 1. The BMW M6: A new benchmark for BMW and M (short story) p3 2. The perfect ten: BMW's V10 wins hearts and minds p14 3. New seven speed transmission: Ultra-fast shifting with Sequential M Gearbox p23 4. Harnessing the power: A chassis providing agility and poise to complement performance p27 5. Body: Inside and out, the M6 is clearly focused p32 6. A new beginning for the M coupé: M6 buyers and market p39 7. The BMW M6 production process: As bespoke as possible p41 8. Standard specifications p43 9. Optional equipment p49 10.Technical specifications, external dimensions, torque graphs p51

1. The BMW M6 : A new benchmark for BMW and M GmbH (short story)

They say lightning never strikes twice. But when two 507hp, 205mph,
V10-powered M cars are launched in one year, stay indoors when the storm clouds
gather.

Following the May arrival of the world's most inspirational saloon car, the
fourth generation M5, the world's most sophisticated production car engine
finds its way into the GT class with the arrival of the BMW M6. Packed with
technology, inspired and built from Formula 1-derived processes, and offering
unparalleled levels of lightweight engineering, the new M6 takes its place in
the UK as the 18th official BMW M car.

The new M6 is the first production car from BMW that can justifiably compete
with rival cars from the factory gates of Newport Pagnell, Maranello or Sant'
Agata, whilst taking the challenge once again to the best that Stuttgart has to
offer. Facing these challenges, the M6 is launched in November 2005 in the UK
as the first series production car to offer a high revving V10 engine combined
with a seven-speed sequential gearbox and a carbon fibre roof. Allied to a
pin-sharp lightweight chassis that delivers fluid responses and poised
handling, the M6 presents a new benchmark for the BMW badge.

The world's best engine?
Born with the world's best engine under the aluminium bonnet would give the new
M6 a head-start over many rivals. And that's just what the highly regarded
International Engine of the Year jury agreed upon. The naturally aspirated,
high-revving, 5.0-litre V10 that powers the M6 won the 2005 award by an
unprecedented margin and added to BMW's list of awards from the jury. A list
longer than that of any other car manufacturer, with 26 trophies garnered in
the awards' history. So, let's take a closer look at the new V10.

Key facts:
Engine 90° V10 4,999cc
Maximum power (hp@rpm) 507@7,750
Maximum torque (Nm@rpm) 520@6,100
Maximum engine speed (rpm) 8,250
Specific output (hp/litre) 101.4
Top speed mph (limited) 155
Top speed mph (unlimited) over 200
0-62mph (secs) 4.6
Transmission 7-speed SMG
Differential M Variable

F1 technology takes to the road:
It will not escape the notice of aficionados that the new M6 engine shares its
V10 configuration with the BMW F1 engine in the 2005 BMW Williams F1 car. But
that is not the only link to the pinnacle of world motorsport. The engine's
manufacturing process and its electronic management system have their roots in
the sport. Add to that the design, manufacture and fitting of a carbon fibre
roof (the first in any series production car other than the very limited-volume
M3 CSL) by BMW. Formula 1 has clearly inspired the team at M.

Engine:
The V10 is not, of course, directly related to the F1 racing car's unit- it has
5.0 litres and the F1 engine is 3.0 litres - but apart from sharing the V10
layout it is a high revving engine, like the F1 unit, and much of the
inspiration for the electronics and engine design was drawn from F1
experience. The high-speed nature of the engine is a case in point. The new
'ten-cylinder' has broken the 8,000rpm barrier and reaches a maximum of
8,250rpm. At 8,000rpm each piston covers 20 metres a second. At 18,000rpm the
pistons of the F1 engine move at 25 metres a second. The difference is that
the M engine must last for a 'lifetime' while the F1 engine only has to travel
500 miles or so.

The brain behind the brawn:
A high-speed engine requires high speed electronic management to ensure that
every last ounce of performance can be extracted. To achieve this objective,
BMW has developed one of the world's most advanced engine management systems,
MS S65, designed and built entirely in-house using know-how from BMW's F1
programme.

Made up of more than 1,000 individual components it co-ordinates and controls
all engine and gearbox functions by using three 32-bit processors that can
perform a truly incredible 200 million individual calculations each second.
This represents a performance increase by a factor of eight when compared with
the M3 unit launched four years ago and MS S65 has ten times the memory
capacity too.

Same birthplace:
So it is abundantly clear that the M6 engine has technological principles and
production methods in common with the F1 engine. It is the product of
technological transfer. The M6 blocks are cast at the BMW light alloy foundry
in Landshut - the same place as the F1 blocks are born - before they journey to
the special engine plant in Munich for assembly.

The engine features a Formula 1-inspired bedplate design for the crankcase that
provides a compact and extremely stiff configuration to withstand the very high
engine speeds, combustion pressures and high temperatures. Another
motorsport-inspired technology is that each of the ten cylinders has its own
throttle butterfly and each cylinder bank is served by its own activator.

Dropping the roof:
The final piece in the F1 / M6 jigsaw is the attempt by the engineers to
lighten the car using carbon fibre technology never before applied to a series
production car.

The incorporation of a BMW-manufactured carbon fibre roof, bonded to the body,
contributes to a 45kg weight reduction over a 'standard' steel car, for
example, but also benefits the car's dynamics in a far more subtle manner. As
weight is removed from the top of the car, its centre of gravity is lowered (by
as much as 60mm in the case of the M6), and its handling and performance
subsequently improved. Again, BMW's F1 experience has helped the engineers
incorporate carbon fibre into the M6 design, both on the roof and on the front
and rear bumper supports.

The fastest and most high tech BMW ever proudly displays its F1-inspired roof
as an unpainted crowning achievement, but at the heart of the M6 lies the true
glory behind the car.

Committed to 'natural' power:
The V10 engine configuration has so far been the preserve of racing cars and
exotic low volume sports cars. BMW is, therefore, breaking the mould with this
new five-litre unit: it produces 507hp, thereby achieving a specific power
output of no less than 101.4hp per litre - a remarkable result from such a
large capacity engine.

BMW achieved this performance by adhering to its philosophy of developing a
high revving normally aspirated engine. This was by no means the easiest route
- forced induction or increasing engine capacity could more easily have
generated the required 507hp - but it demonstrates BMW M engineers' quest to
offer only the purest and lightest solution for its M6 customers.

The result is an engine that reaches maximum power at 7,750rpm and goes on to
reach maximum revs of 8,250rpm.

High revs + power + torque + gearing = thrust:
High power outputs and engine revs are not, however, an objective in
themselves. To produce the driving response required by M6 drivers these
characteristics must be melded with high torque and gearing throughout the
driveline that blend to produce thrust.

Acceleration characteristics and driving dynamics depend on the balance of
forward thrust and vehicle weight and this has been the main focus for M
engineers. The new M6 engine produces 520Nm at 6,100rpm and 450Nm is available
from only 3,500rpm thus providing a wide engine range from which to produce
thrust.

Weight-watcher - every gram counts:
This masterpiece of an engine weighs in at just 240kgs. There are a host of
super-light components inside the engine - for example the forged steel
crankshaft, carried in six bearings, weighs only 21.8kgs while each piston
weighs a mere 481.7 grams. This same engine features in the new M5 and, as an
example of the lengths the engineers have gone to in reducing weight, overall
moving masses in the valve train have been reduced by 17.5 per cent when
compared with the new M5's predecessor, the E39 V8 powerplant.

Each small contribution to weight reduction helps to ensure that the goal of
perfect 50/50 front to rear weight distribution is achieved.

Breathing and exhaling:
BMW's familiar Bi-VANOS infinitely variable camshaft control has been developed
to suit the new high-speed engine. The system enables increased performance,
an improved torque curve and lower fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.

Stainless steel five-into-one tubular exhaust manifolds, with a wall thickness
of just 0.8mm, feed exhaust gases into two dual flow exhaust pipes equipped
with four trimetal-coated catalytic converters. These reach optimum
temperature quickly and enable the M6 to meet European EU4 and American LEV2
emission standards with ease.

The devil is in the detail:
The technical details of this new V10 engine could fill a book (see engine
section) but to highlight just three items:

.. There are ten individual throttle butterflies, each individually
electronically controlled, which read the position of the throttle pedal 200
times a second.
.. A clever transverse lubrication system ensures that the two cylinder heads
receive oil even when 1g+ cornering forces are experienced and a quasi-dry sump
system keeps the bottom end lubricated even under extreme 1.3g braking.
.. The spark plugs use ionic current technology to act as a sensor and inform
the MS S65 control unit about combustion conditions and control engine knock,
as well as igniting the fuel / air mixture.

Seventh heaven:
To extract the best from this gem of a V10 engine BMW has developed a seven
speed Sequential M Gearbox (SMG). This manual gearbox is an all-new
transmission designed to handle up to 550Nm of torque and engine speeds of up
to 8,500rpm, giving capacity to spare. Naturally, seven gears allows shorter
steps from one gear to the next than a five or six-speed 'box so this gearbox
matches torque to the prodigious power output and translates it into maximum
forward thrust.

Drivelogic - bespoke gear changes:
BMW is the first manufacturer to offer such a seven-speed sequential gearbox in
a production car. It also features Drivelogic - eleven gear change programmes
available to every driver to select his or her preferences.

The selection of programmes is made by pressing a button next to the gear
lever. A preferred default mode can also be programmed into MDrive Manager via
the iDrive menu and activated by the MDrive button on the steering wheel.

Six programmes in S mode are manual changes that must be determined by the
driver - either using the gear lever (forward for down changes, back for up) or
the paddles behind the steering wheel (left for down changes, right for up).
The remaining five in D mode are automated changes.

Each programme differs in gear change time - the higher the programme the
shorter and faster the shift times and the longer the engine holds onto the
revs. In the automated modes use of the throttle can influence the change:
for example, releasing the throttle encourages an up-shift while pressing it
harder calls up a down change.

Ten times quicker than you or I:
The SMG system in the current M3 (SMG II) is already very fast but the new
seven-speed SMG in the M6 (SMG III) is 20 per cent quicker still. To put this
in perspective the new gearbox can make changes in 50 milliseconds while a
seasoned driver will take around half a second with a normal manual gearbox.

Other features of the new SMG gearbox include:

.. Gearchange lights and engine revolutions graphic in the Head-up Display
(HUD).
.. SMG includes a launch control system that gives perfect F1-style starts
from zero to maximum speed. (Programme six in S mode)
.. Hill start assistant prevents roll back when stopping on a gradient after
releasing the brake.
.. Hill recognition allows SMG to change gear points on gradients eg holding
lower gears on downhill stretches and vice versa.

Agility and poise:
An outstanding drivetrain cries out for a chassis that can exploit its
potential. To harness 507hp effectively M engineers were presented with a
considerable challenge.

They did, of course, already have a head start. The chassis of the 'normal' 6
Series Coupé was engineered to be the most competent in its segment. The high
torsional rigidity of the bodyshell, well-balanced 50/50 weight distribution,
long wheelbase, wide track, aluminium suspension and, of course, rear wheel
drive all coalesce into a fine springboard.

Starting at this high level the engineers made a number of detailed changes to
meet the extra demands made by the M6's potential. They stiffened the front
subframe and changed the bearings at the front while at the rear additional
supports, links and joints ensure greater precision for poised handling. The
suspension bushes have also been tuned with high performance in mind. The final
drive casing is made of aluminium and finned to reduce weight and improve
cooling. Lightweight but stiff tubular drive shafts keep moving masses low.

Steering:
M Servotronic power steering is both road- and engine-speed related which
resolves the dilemma of the need for lighter steering at parking speeds and
firmer, 'heavier' steering to provide driver feedback at speed.

The M6's Servotronic mapping offers two alternatives to the standard default
setting and both relate to the prevailing Electronic Damper Control (EDC)
mode. In the sporty EDC mode steering is more direct giving the driver an
immediate, precise response while in Comfort EDC mode a higher ratio gives an
easier, more comfortable steering reaction.

Electronic Damper Control (EDC):
EDC provides continuous and infinitely variable shock absorber control. In
normal mode the damping is adjusted to achieve the optimum balance for normal
conditions while 'Sport' and 'Comfort' provide firmer and softer reactions
respectively.

Variable M Differential Lock:
Like the M3 and the new M5, the M6 has a unique and variable, torque-sensing
differential developed by BMW M GmbH. Unlike a normal limited slip
differential the M differential lock can provide between zero and 100 per cent
of the drive forces to either driven wheel. This ensures maximum stability and
optimum traction.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with MDynamic mode:
A new generation of DSC was developed exclusively for 2005's M cars and can be
programmed to act in one of three stages. The first corresponds to a standard
DSC system found on all BMWs, while the second, MDynamic mode is unique to the
M5 and M6 and allows the driver to really 'push the envelope' of the M6's
performance capabilities.

MDynamic mode is a development of BMW's Dynamic Traction Control system. DSC
set at this stage will not intervene to save things until the last possible
moment. Therefore the M6 can reach amazing slip angles and still recover. The
desired programme is initially selected using the MDrive Manager programme (see
page 11) but is then subsequently activated by simply pressing the MDrive
button on the steering wheel.

In addition the driver can also switch between DSC fully operational or
completely disengaged via a button on the centre console. Understandably, this
should not be practised on the public road.

Brakes:
Large, drilled compound disc brakes with aluminium twin-piston sliding
callipers provide braking to match the M6's performance. From 62mph the M6 is
stationary after just 26 metres. From 124mph the braking distance is less than
140 metres.

Wheels and tyres:
To accommodate the huge brake discs the M6 is equipped with 19-inch M Light
Alloy double spoke wheels of unique design (8.5 inches at the front and 9.5
inches at the rear).

Specially developed tyres were designed and tuned on the Nordschliefe, where
all new BMWs are rigorously tested, to deliver both comfort and feedback to the
driver. Tyre sizes are 255/40 ZR 19 at the front and 285/35 ZR 19 at the rear.

A tyre defect system warns if pressure drops below a certain threshold and the
familiar M Mobility System allows tyre damage of up to 6mm to be sealed
effectively by the roadside. Hence there is no need for a spare wheel and tyre
saving 20kgs, which brings the benefits of a power-to-weight reduction and
better driving dynamics.

The 6 Series diet:
The M6 engineers and designers have raised the bar on the use of lightweight
technologies within the industry.

The engineers were challenged to shed all unnecessary weight in the
transformation from 6 Series grand tourer to M6 performance car yet still
maintain the car as a comfortable and safe 2+2 continent crusher. BMW's
traditional use of lightweight technologies was merely a starting point. A
tour around the car reveals weight-saving on every plane, including the world's
first carbon fibre (CFP) roof in series production, CFP front and rear bumper
supports, aluminium doors and bonnet, thermoplastic front wings and a sheet
moulding compound (SMC) boot lid.

Carbon lightens the load:
Inspired by the reaction to 2002's M3 CSL, and using experience gained from
Formula 1 engineering, BMW replaced the conventional steel roof of the 6 Series
Coupé with carbon fibre. This reduces the weight of the roof by 50 per cent
(nearly five kilos) and aids handling as, with weight removed from the top, the
car's centre of gravity is lowered.

Designed and manufactured at BMW's own Landshut Plant, the roof not only
contributes to weight loss through its composition, but also through the fact
that it is bonded to the body of the car rather than welded. This allows the
rear window to be re-designed as a thinner and lighter structure. The roof
remains unpainted on the production car to highlight the performance benefits
to the M6 driver.

Air flow: from the roof to the floor:
With 507hp and 205 mph potentially on tap, in a car that begs to be driven
hard, it was imperative that the engineers ensured the efficient supply and
extraction of cool air. Again, in-house designers and engineers worked closely
together to ensure maximum performance.

The front air dam sits close to the road and features large air intakes to
maximise the supply of cool air under the bonnet and a separate flow of cooling
air is also directed over the ventilated disc brakes and underneath the bonnet
via side openings to the left and right of the central air scoop. Flaps on the
front air dam also reduce lift forces on the front axle.

At the back, a diffuser on the rear air dam maximises the flow of cool air over
the final drive and, in combination with the car's smooth floor pan and subtle
boot-lip spoiler, reduces drag and lift forces. The larger rear air dam now
houses the car's number plate, with the rear light units slightly raised
accordingly.

Side on:
From a side view, the shape of the front wings has been modified to suit the
larger, but lighter wheels, which weigh nearly two kgs less than comparable
'normal' light-alloy wheels. The wheels are shod with high performance
Continental tyres.

Low, and dynamic re-styled side sills emphasize the length of the M6 and
optimise the flow of air along the underside of the car, improving its
aerodynamic properties. As do the new door mirrors with their dramatic
two-tone design. Honed in the wind tunnel, they contribute towards reducing
lift on the front axle.

Weight to the rear:
Battery and fuel tank placement was replicated from the M5 design following a
redesign of the 6 Series Coupé boot floor. The battery location over the rear
axle and the 70-litre plastic fuel tank situated in front of the rear axle
helps weight distribution front to rear. A jet pump and pressure-controlled
dual pump in the fuel tank permanently ensure a reliable fuel supply.

M body colours:
Launched on the M5 in May, four exclusive metallic paints - Sepang Bronze,
Silverstone II, Indianapolis Red and Interlagos Blue - are also available on
M6. Other colours available include Alpine White, Black Sapphire metallic and
Silver-grey metallic. The air vent gills in the front wings, the boot lid and
the doorsill trims all bear the M6 logo.

The interior: sports car characteristics with a touch of comfort:
The M6 interior offers the sporting touches and luxurious traits expected of
such a thoroughbred sports car. Passengers are presented with
performance-related functions, but space, comfort and safety remain fundamental
criteria.

A total of six airbags, belt force limiters, intelligent safety electronics and
the automatic or manual emergency call via the BMW Assist function (if the car
is fitted with Bluetooth and telematics capability) are all standard.

Even with regard to luggage space, the car compares well with the M5
super-saloon. Confirming its credentials as a cross-country (or continent) GT,
the M6 offers 450 litres boot space, just 50 litres shy of the M5.

Sporting luxury inside:
The M6 features Merino leather upholstery as standard with Full and Perforated
Merino leathers offered as an option. Full Merino leather adds a leather
dashboard and centre console while Perforated Merino leather features active
ventilation of the driver and the front passenger seats.

Comfort is all-important when seated at the wheel of a sports car and the M6's
contoured M seat is both supportive and comfortable. Featuring passive
backrest width adjustment that offers superb side support, they also come with
seat memory function, seat heating for driver and front seat passenger, and an
electrically adjustable lumbar support.

+ 2 = room for four:
Space in the rear will always be a compromise for a sports car, but the new M6
offers sufficient room for two youngsters, or even two adults on short
journeys. Access is easy as the front seats slide a long way forwards and tip,
whilst contoured back rests on the rear seats ensure good support.

At the wheel:
The newly designed M leather multi-function sports steering wheel is
ergonomically designed with the SMG shift paddles (down on the left, up on the
right) within fingertip reach.

The M6 features the same new design of speedometer and rev counter as
introduced on the M5. A round black dial with white numerals and the typical M
red needles provide all essential information. Yellow and red warning fields
indicate rev limits while the engine is warming. An oil temperature gauge and
odometer complete the instruments while a display between the speedo and tacho
shows the SMG gear selected and Drivelogic transmission programme operation. It
can also display the engine's oil level and on-board computer functions.

MDrive Manager:
MDrive is a new function activated by the M button on the steering wheel. It
enables the driver to change the smooth and comfortable grand tourer into a
thoroughbred sports car at the touch of a button.

At the press of a button the following functions are activated (after they have
been pre-selected by the driver from the MDrive Manager menu within iDrive):

.. The power button - P400, P500 or P500 Sport programmes
.. SMG Drivelogic - which of the 11 programmes is preferred
.. DSC - on, MDynamic mode or off
.. EDC - Sport, Normal or Comfort damper settings
.. HUD - normal or M specific display

All the driver has to do is select his favourite settings within iDrive then
press the M button on the steering wheel.

Head-up Display:
The standard Head-up Display (HUD) provides driving information directly in the
driver's line of sight - i.e. it appears to be at the end of the bonnet. The
driver can choose to have the normal HUD display, including navigation
information, or specific M information.

The M-specific display shows engine revs in a coloured map image that flash at
the point of gear change, gear in mesh and vehicle speed. In either display the
Check Control messages such as "door open" or "low fuel" are still shown.

The market:
The M6 sees BMW entering a new niche market. Never before has the company
offered a high-performance 2+2 sports GT that is able to stand toe-to-toe with
Italian supercars.

Only 400 cars will be available in the UK in 2006 and the waiting list already
covers that allocation. Performance-wise the car competes with far more
expensive cars from the likes of Ferrari and Aston Martin, and at £80,755,
outperforms many similarly priced cars. Typically, owners will have at least
two other cars in their garage and will be slightly younger than the driver of
a standard 6 Series Coupé (mid-40s compared to late-40s).

As with the M5 that was launched in May 2005, BMW UK is working hard to ensure
that prospectors do not benefit at the expense of genuine customers on the
waiting list.

Owners will be predominantly male, mostly successful businessmen or
entrepreneurs. And with the combination of searing performance and
practicality, they will use the car day-to-day, rather than as a weekend toy.

"BMW is enjoying a very successful new decade with record sales in the UK and
the M badge is a key special ingredient in our achievements," said Jim O'
Donnell, managing director of BMW (UK) Ltd.

"The M5, and now the M6, are fantastically aspirational models within our
range. They are an inspiration for true car enthusiasts and continue to set
the benchmark for performance versions of standard road cars. For many of our
customers, the M cars are the reason for joining the BMW family, whether they
own a new M6 or our 1 Series sports hatch, where the company's engineering
principles, honed at the M division, clearly filter down through the range.

"As showcases for technological innovation, combined with driving dynamics that
continue to appeal to the enthusiast, special cars like the M6 put the M in
BMW," O'Donnell concluded.

The new BMW M6. Contents. 1. World Debut of the new BMW M6. (Short Version) 2. The new V10 Power Unit in the BMW M6: A Masterpiece in Engine Construction 3. The Seven-Speed SMG Gearbox: Shifting Gears like in Formula 1 4. The Chassis and Suspension of the BMW M6: Agile, Fast, Safe 5. Body, Design, Equipment: Light and Safe, Sporting and Luxurious 6. Production of the BMW M6: High-Tech and Individual Style in One 7. Positioning of the new BMW M6 8. Heritage of the BMW M6: Its Predecessors are already Legends: The BMW M635CSi and the BMW M1 9. Specifications 10.Exterior and Interior Dimensions 11.Output and Torque Diagram

World Debut of the new BMW M6
(Short Version)

Launching the new M6, BMW M GmbH is proudly presenting the most dynamic and
sporting rendition of the 6 Series Luxury Coupé. This makes BMW's large Coupé
in the guise of the M6 one of the most beautiful cars in the world - and at the
same time the most sophisticated and powerful 6 Series there has ever been:
five litres engine capacity, 10 cylinders, 507 bhp (373 kW), 520 Newton-metres
(383 lb-ft) maximum torque, and engine speed beyond the 8,000 rpm limit.

Together with the outstanding, uncompromising suspension designed and built
exclusively for sporting performance, this supreme power unit gives the BMW M6
all the qualities of a thoroughbred supersports. But unlike its competitors
usually offering only two seats, the BMW M6 comes with all the space and
comfort of a typical 2+2-seater, plus the luxurious features of a typical
luxury performance BMW.

The success principle: True power in a discreet package:

The BMW M6 shares its supreme power unit with the BMW M5. Ever since being
introduced in the M5, this engine has been acknowledged as the absolute
benchmark, just as the M5 is the very epitome of the Sports Saloon.

Now, introducing even more superior performance data, the BMW M6 sets a new
standard in the segment of high-performance 2+2-seater luxury sports cars.
Creating this unique model, the engineers at BMW M GmbH have focused not only
on the sheer power of the engine, but also on the weight of the body and, as a
result, the mass to be accelerated as quickly as possible on the road. Reducing
weight to a sensible minimum, the M6 comes with all the driving dynamics
required for the race track, while in terms of motoring comfort and equipment
it is simply ideal for all roads the world over. Not least, the body design of
the BMW M6 modified only discreetly versus the elegant look of the BMW Coupé
comes with all the understatement so characteristic of all M Models as their
elementary feature.

Interacting with the seven-speed SMG transmission, the magnificent chassis and
suspension, the elegant body in innovative lightweight technology, as well as
the wide range of luxury equipment, the ten-cylinder high-speed engine gives
the customer a brand-new dimension in motoring performance. It is indeed
difficult to find any genuine competitors to the M6, since all other more or
less comparable cars are either all-out supersports or sports saloons far
inferior in terms of agility. So given the car's innovative drive concept, a
power-to-weight ratio even better than on the M5, as well as unique handling -
and all this with all the everyday driving qualities of a large coupé ? the
engineers at BMW M GmbH rightly claim that the new BMW M6 truly comes in a
class of its own.

V10 power unit running at racing speeds.:

Sharing BMW's V10 power unit, the M5 and M6 come with one of the rare
high-speed engines in regular saloon and coupé production. Within the entire
BMW family, the V10 is indeed the most demanding engine in technical terms and,
without doubt, the top performer in every respect.

Power and performance, however, are not everything. Rather, what really counts
is a car's acceleration and driving dynamics on the road. And this depends,
first, on the weight of a car and, second, on the thrust and power which
actually goes to the drive wheels - which, in turn, is a result of engine
torque and the overall transmission ratio. BMW's high-speed engine concept
allows an optimum gearbox and final drive transmission ratio in all cases, thus
guaranteeing impressive thrust and momentum on the road at all times.

The perfect choice: High-revving concept:

A compact, high-revving normal-aspiration engine is the best of all strategies
in generating maximum engine output: Revving up to speed of 8,250 rpm, the V10
reaches a speed range reserved until recently to purebred racing cars alone. As
a result, the engine easily outperforms the magical limit of 100 bhp per litre,
again achieving specific output of a standard otherwise only found in
motorsport.

The two five-cylinder banks in the V10 are arranged at an angle of 90° in order
to optimise the standard of vibration control and motoring comfort offered by
full mass compensation on the crankdrive. Taking the substantial forces of the
combustion process, high engine speeds and vibrations into account, the
crankcase comes in bedplate design. The extremely stiff crankshaft, in turn,
runs in six bearings.

Variable dual-VANOS camshaft control ensures an optimum cylinder charge cycle
in the interest of extremely fast valve timing. On the road this means even
more performance, an improved torque curve, optimum responsiveness, lower fuel
consumption, and emissions reduced to a minimum. Again reflecting the typical
features of motorsport, each cylinder comes with its own throttle butterfly
masterminded fully electronically for each row of cylinders.

Twin-chamber exhaust system made of stainless steel:

Made of stainless steel without any connecting seams, the exhaust system comes
in twin-chamber configuration all the way to the silencers, before exhaust
emissions leave the car through the four tailpipes so characteristic of every
BMW M Car. It almost goes without saying that exhaust emissions meet the
European EU4 and, respectively, the US LEV2 standards, the M6 standing out from
the M5 also through its even more powerful and sporting sound.

This outstanding performance and emission management is ensured and
masterminded by the central engine management unit featuring the most powerful
processors currently to be found in any car anywhere, since the demands made of
the management system are obviously particularly stringent due to the very high
engine speed and the sum total of all control and management functions.

A particular highlight of the engine control unit is ionic current technology
serving to detect any tendency of the engine to knock, misfire and suffer
mis-combustion. This intelligent control unit is able to sense any tendency to
knock via the spark plug in each cylinder, checking the correct ignition
setting and recognising any tendency to misfire and thus allowing the engine to
run as closely as possible to its theoretical limits, developing optimum power
and performance in the process. The spark plug serves both as an actuator for
the ignition and as a sensor observing the combustion process.

Seven-speed SMG transmission conveying M Power to the road:

To develop all its qualities and assets, a high-speed power unit must be
combined with the right transmission. This is the only way, given the right
transmission ratios, for the drivetrain to develop all the power and torque
provided by the engine in giving the car optimum thrust and forward motion.

BMW's seven-speed SMG transmission is precisely the right manual gearbox for
conveying the power of the V10 via the drivetrain to the rear wheels. This
gearbox from BMW M is indeed the world's only sequential transmission with
seven gears and Drivelogic. With qualities even greater than on a six-speed SMG
gearbox, this transmission allows manual selection of gears with extremely
short gearshift times as well as comfortable cruising qualities thanks to the
automatic gear selection function. And at the same time the additional gear
keeps the increments between engine speed and torque even smaller, ensuring an
absolutely smooth process of one gear 'flowing' into the other.

The driver shifts gears in the SMG transmission either from the selector
lever or via paddles in the steering wheel. Compared with conventional SMG
transmission, the new generation of SMG technology performs the entire
gearshift process 20 per cent faster, gears merging directly into one another.

As a result, any interruption of the flow of power inevitable when shifting
gears now becomes hardly perceptible, the BMW M6 accelerating virtually without
the slightest jolt or interruption from a standstill all the way to top speed.

Drivelogic: The driver determines how SMG shifts gears:

Featuring its special Drivelogic function, SMG on the BMW M6 offers the driver
a total of 11 gearshift options allowing him to individually adjust the
gearshift characteristics of the SMG transmission to his personal style of
motoring.

Six of these driving programs come in the sequential manual function (S-mode),
ranging from smooth but dynamic all the way to supersports. Driving in the
S-mode, the driver shifts all gears manually. But thanks to the launch control
function SMG Drivelogic shifts gears automatically shortly before the engine
reaches its maximum speed, ensuring an optimum gearshift process with optimum
spin control all the way to the top speed of the BMW M6.

In the automatic shift mode (Drive = D-mode), the transmission shifts the seven
gears automatically as a function of the driving program currently in use, the
driving situation, road speed, and the position of the gas pedal.

SMG for even greater safety and motoring comfort:

Seven-speed SMG supports the driver not only in achieving and enjoying the
highest standard of performance comparable to genuine motorsport. Rather,
it also comes with many safety features opening up the clutch within fractions
of a second in a critical situation - for example when shifting down on a
slippery surface - in order to keep the car stable and free of excessive engine
forces acting on the drive wheels. A further special function is hill detection
adjusting the gearshift points on uphill and downhill gradients. Driving
uphill, this avoids the common phenomenon of the gears constantly shifting up
and down ('pendulum gearshift'), driving downhill the hill detection mode holds
lower gears in mesh longer than usual in order to capitalise on the engine's
braking effect.

Last but not least, SMG also enhances the particular sound effect of the V10
power unit: To quote a specialist commenting on this special sound, that
'brief, roaring rumble' is simply fantastic when the electronic control unit
responsible for the engine briefly gives intermediate gas in the process of
shifting down.

Maximum driving pleasure:

Interaction of the V10 power unit and seven-speed SMG gives the driver of the
BMW M6 Coupé driving pleasure of the highest calibre: Acceleration from
0-100 km/h comes in 4.6 seconds and the M6 reaches 200 km/h or 124 mph in just
about 14 seconds. Then, at a speed of 250 km/h or 155 mph, the electronic speed
governor ends the car's irresistible surge of power, while the speedometer
gives you an idea where the engine would take you without such electronic speed
control: the speedometer goes all the way to 330 km/h or 205 mph.

Lapping the Northern Circuit of Nürburgring in 8 minutes:

The world-famous Nordschleife, the Northern Circuit of the legendary
Nürburgring Race Track, is the perfect benchmark for measuring driving
dynamics. For it is here, on the world's most demanding race track, that the
exceptional stand out from the mediocre in terms of supreme driving dynamics.
Nowhere else is the interaction of all a car's components as clear as here,
when driving to the absolute limit. Lapping the Northern Circuit in around 8
minutes, the BMW M6 easily matches the most thoroughbred sports cars, clearly
beating the competition.

M Suspension: The icing on the cake of the BMW 6 Series:

Lap times of this kind clearly bear testimony to the M6' driving qualities.
Which is actually no surprise, considering that the chassis and suspension
already outstanding on the BMW 6 Series as such, as well as the modern
assistance systems, have been specially adapted on the M6 for truly
unparalleled M Performance. Compared with the M5, in turn, the wheelbase is
shorter and the car comes with a lower centre of gravity for extra agility on
the road. In terms of both chassis equipment and set-up, the M6 is therefore a
unique car in every respect.

Variable M Differential Lock:

The variable, speed-sensing M Differential Lock gives the M6 superior driving
stability and optimum traction particularly when accelerating out of a bend.
Even in very demanding driving situations, the differential offers crucial
advantages in terms of traction, for example with the drive wheels running on
very different surfaces with a wide range of different frictional coefficients.
A further advantage is the locking action immediately built up when necessary
to compensate any difference in speed between the drive wheels, thus ensuring
smooth and powerful drive forces at all times.

DSC with two dynamic driving programs available on demand:

The BMW M6 boasts a brand-new generation of DSC Dynamic Stability Control. With
the first stage of DSC being conceived for maximum driving safety, the M
Dynamic mode, as on the M5, is tailored to the sporting driver. And pressing a
button on the selector lever cover, the driver is able to switch off DSC
whenever he wishes.

EDC: From firm and taut all the way to comfortable and extra-smooth:

EDC Electronic Damper Control on the BMW M6 offers the driver the choice of
three programs available on demand: Comfort, Normal, and Sports, with the car's
chassis and suspension ranging from sporting and firm all the way to -
relatively - smooth and comfortable. The driver operates EDC via the MDrive
button on the steering wheel or the push button next to the SMG selector lever.

Power button activating special engine characteristics on demand:

In many situations the driver does not need all the power and agility of the
BMW M6 - for example in city traffic. So when the driver starts the engine, the
BMW M6 automatically sets off in its comfort-oriented P400 performance program
with 400 bhp engine output. But then all the driver has to do is press the
power button on the selector lever cover in order to use all the muscle and
dynamic performance of the supreme ten-cylinder. This also changes the response
of the engine, making it even more direct and responsive, both the P400 program
and the even more dynamic P500 sports program giving free rein to the driver's
wish for uncompromising motorsport performance.

High-performance brakes like in motorsport:

Reflecting its truly outstanding power and performance, the BMW M6 naturally
features extra-large high-performance brakes complete with cross-drilled
extra-low-weight compound brake discs. The double-piston swing callipers made
of aluminium, in turn, optimised for both weight and stiffness, ensure stopping
distances shorter than ever before: Applying the brakes from a speed of 100
km/h, the driver of the BMW M6 comes to a standstill after just 36 metres and
takes less than 140 metres to reach a stop from a speed of 200 km/h (124 mph).

High-performance athlete in a beautiful body:

With the BMW 6 Series already acknowledged as a strikingly beautiful car, the
M6 enhances this impression to an even higher standard, special design features
making this unique Coupé look even more powerful and dynamic, while remaining
discreet and unpretentious all the same.

The most eye-catching feature is the truly impressive front air dam. And like
all design features on a BMW M Car, this particular element focuses once again
primarily on its specific function: The V10 power unit requires roughly twice
as much cooling air as the V8 in the BMW 645Ci. Large secondary intake openings
to the left and right of the front air dam thus give the engine of the M6 even
more air to breathe and cool the brakes at the same time. Through their design
alone, finally, these air openings accentuate the sporting character of the car.

Lightweight engineering and beautiful design in perfect harmony:

Beneath the doors the side-sills powerfully contoured for aerodynamic reasons
again emphasise the dynamic impression of this sports coupé. At the same time
the side-sills stretch the car for an even sleeker look, making the BMW M6 even
lower and more dynamic in its appearance. The 19-inch forged aluminium wheels
developed especially for the M6, together with their five filigree double
spokes, are extremely light and provide a very good view of the large brake
discs. Compared with comparable wheels, the weight saving is 1.8 kilos per
wheel.

The M model logo in the ornamental slats at the side tells the connoisseur
right away that this car is one of the outstanding athletes within the BMW M
Family. And like on all M Models, the exterior mirrors come in their very own,
sporting look.

The rear air dam with its characteristic diffuser opening again serves first
and foremost to provide an aerodynamic function. But at the same time it adds
an even more sporting look to the car, the particular design of the diffuser
improving the flow of air along the underfloor and reducing lift forces. The
four tailpipes on the twin-chamber exhaust system bordering the diffuser
opening in pairs on either side are one of the signs of distinction so typical
of a BMW M Car.

First-ever carbon roof in series production:

The first car to feature a roof made of carbon was the BMW M3 CSL. Now,
following that special model built in small, strictly limited series, BMW M
GmbH is introducing a carbon roof on the M6 Coupé, thus raising this concept of
intelligent lightweight technology to a new dimension in series production.

Offering the same stability and crash safety as a steel roof, this carbon-fibre
material derived from motorsport is significantly lighter than aluminium, let
alone steel. The result is a significant reduction in weight and mass lowering
the car's centre of gravity and requiring less forces for acceleration or
coming to a stop.

Inside, the M6 stands out from the 'basic' model also through its even more
sophisticated Merino leather upholstery with a choice of three different
colours or - at extra cost - with full leather upholstery leaving absolutely
nothing to be desired.

A sports car for everyday motoring:

Despite its simply shuttering performance, the BMW M6 does not make any
compromises in terms of adequate roominess as well as active and passive safety
of the highest standard. Even the level of motoring comfort is virtually the
same as in the 'regular' model. And when it comes to both fuel economy and
environmental compatibility, the M6 again lives up the exemplary standard of
all BMWs.

The announcement of a new M car remains a rare and exciting occasion, and the
launch of the new M6 in 2005 will reveal a potent new combination of BMW
engineering and M power.

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 exclusive club, the fourth new M car of the decade sets
a new performance benchmark for a production car. The beauty of the M6 is also
its ability to comfortably crush kilometres on a cross-country cruise.

The BMW M6 is the new standard-bearer for BMW's M car range, as well as the
return of a much loved and highly regarded BMW badge. The latest M car
features:

· 5.0-litre V10 engine producing 507bhp
· Seven-speed SMG (personally programmable)
· Lightweight body panels including carbon fibre roof
· 0 - 62mph in 4.6 seconds / 62 - 0 in 36 metres
· 155mph limited top speed
· MDrive Manager control settings

Like its predecessor - the legendary 1985 M635CSi - the new M6 resets the
sports GT benchmark, with supercar performance, dispatching the zero to 62mph
sprint in 4.6 seconds and achieving a limited top speed of 155mph. If
derestricted, the M6 would be capable of a 200mph+ top speed. During tests at
the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, the new M6 regularly clocked eight
minutes lap times. These rarefied performance statistics are, however, backed
up by 'real world' economy and efficiency - the new M6 delivers a combined EU
fuel consumption of 19.0mpg and a CO2 rating of 357g/km.

Powered by the same 4,999cc engine that set new standards in the M5, the 507bhp
power output ensures that the new M6 maintains the M car tradition of breaking
the 100bhp per litre benchmark. Peak power is developed at 7,750rpm with the
red line set at 8,250rpm. Peak torque of 520Nm is developed at 6,100rpm of
which 450Nm is available from just 3,500rpm. The 90-degree V10
aluminium-silicon alloy engine block is extremely light yet robust and is the
first V-arrangement engine to use a bedplate construction. The aluminium
bedplate with cast-iron inlays ensures the engine's rigidity throughout the rev
range, but the complete unit still weighs just 240kgs.

The capable chassis of the new M6 permits lateral acceleration in excess of
1g. To cope with such forces, the V10 engine features a lateral
force-controlled oil supply that, from 0.6g of lateral movement, activates one
of two electronic oil pumps to draw oil from the cylinder head and delivers it
back into the sump to ensure perfect lubrication even in the most extreme
situations. It is because of the extreme forces that can be induced by the M6
that the car also makes use of a semi dry sump lubrication system with an oil
reservoir on each side of the front subframe.

Masterminding all the M6's engine electronics is one of the most advanced
engine control systems ever developed. The MS S65 control unit coordinates all
engine functions using three 32-bit processors that handle more than 200
million operations per second from over 50 incoming signals. Each of the 10
cylinders has its own throttle butterfly, with its position being monitored 200
times per second. Reacting to changes in throttle position, the butterfly can
move from closed to fully open in a mere 120 milliseconds (approximately three
times faster than the blink of an eye).

Like the M5, the new M6 also uses BMW's new third-generation seven speed
Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) with Drivelogic. Drivelogic offers the choice
of 11 different change patterns, depending on the speed of change required.
Six change patterns are available in the manual mode and five in the
'automatic' mode, in which the gearbox will automatically select the most
appropriate gear depending on driving conditions.

The new SMG gearbox also offers safety benefits when downshifting on slippery
surfaces. If it detects the rear wheels locking up, the clutch opens for a
fraction of a second to ensure traction is maintained. Hill Detection is
another SMG feature. In automatic mode, the SMG gearbox recognises that the
car is travelling on an incline and holds gears uphill to maintain acceleration
and selects lower gears when progressing downhill to make the most of the
available engine braking.

The suspension of the new M6 is based on the 'standard' 645Ci geometry. With
the exception of components such as tie bars, wheel mounts and bearings, the
double-arm spring strut front axle is made completely of aluminium. The
U-shaped front subframe houses the rack and pinion steering assembly, anti-roll
bar and track control arms.

The Integral IV rear axle assembly is also made from aluminium to reduce
unsprung masses. In addition, the new M6 features BMW's variable,
speed-sensing M Differential Lock. Featured on all current BMW M models, the M
Differential Lock builds up locking action whenever one of the rear wheels
begins to spin, channelling drive to the wheel with the most grip to improve
handling and stability.

Electronic Damper Control is also standard on the M6. Offering the driver
three suspension settings - Comfort, Normal and Sport, drivers can select the
most appropriate setting for their driving style or road conditions. The new
BMW M6 also features a BMW M version of Servotronic steering with two specific
settings corresponding to the Electronic Damper Control settings, Sport or
Comfort.

BMW's DSC stability control system has been adapted for the M6. Featuring M
Dynamic Mode (first seen on the new M5), drivers can take their cars to the
limit of the laws of physics, allowing considerable angles of controllable
oversteer when circumstances allow.

The new BMW M6 comes with a Power button (pioneered in the M5) in the centre
console. Initially the car pre-selects the P400 setting, delivering 400bhp for
town or city driving, for example. Engaging the Power button modifies the
response of the throttle and enables the P500 setting to deliver the full
507bhp generated by the V10 engine.

Control of all of these features has been brought together using the M6's
MDrive Manager. MDrive allows the driver to pre-select specific settings for
the Power button, SMG gearbox, DSC, EDC and Head-up Display. With one push of
the steering wheel-mounted button, the driver selects his or her chosen
character. For example, the car can be set up for an exciting 30 mile A-road
drive to and from work or, on the other hand, for a city commute. More extreme
settings can be pre-programmed for track use.

For a car with such potential, high performance brakes are needed and the new
BMW M6 doesn't disappoint. Using aluminium double piston callipers and
cross-drilled disc brakes, the car can stop from 62mph in just 36 metres and
from 124mph (200km/h) in only 140 metres - equivalent to 1.3g deceleration.

Specially developed tyres ensure that the prodigious horsepower and braking
power are transferred to the road. Measuring 255/40ZR19 on the front and
285/35ZR19 on the rear, the tyres are mounted on lightweight five-spoke 19-inch
forged aluminium wheels, each weighing 1.8kgs less than a normal cast alloy
wheel.

Like other 6 Series models, the new BMW M6 uses a hybrid construction of
aluminium, thermoplastics and SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound). This mixture of
materials delivers an extremely rigid, yet light, body structure. The front
wings are made of thermoplastics, the doors and bonnet of aluminium and the
boot lid, SMC. Like the legendary M3 CSL, but unlike the 630i and 645Ci, the
new BMW M6 also uses carbon fibre in the construction of the roof panel to
reduce the weight yet further - this feature alone saves nearly five kilograms
and contributes towards the overall weight of just 1710kgs.

Visually, the new M6 differentiates itself from the 6 Series by a deeper front
valance with air intakes for the engine and brakes, more contoured sills and
rear valance that includes a diffuser to increase aerodynamic efficiency.
Nestling under the rear valance are BMW M's telltale four rear exhaust pipes.
To complement the changes in body styling, the new M6 is available in four
exclusive M colours - Indianapolis Red, Sepang Bronze, Interlagos Blue and
Silverstone alongside three other 6 Series colours.

Inside, the new M6 comes with fully adjustable M sports seats that include
lumber support and an adjustable backrest width as standard. They are covered
in extended Merino leather, with the owner able to choose between Black,
Silverstone or Sepang. As an option, full Merino leather can be specified in
Indianapolis Red and Portland Natural Brown alongside the other three colours
that includes a leather covered dashboard and alcantata headlining.

The new BMW M6 also features BMW M's version of the new Head-up Display
system. Unlike the standard Head-up Display available on 5 and 6 Series models
that offers navigation instructions and cruise control information, the system
on the M6 projects driver-focussed information such as engine speed, gear
selected and road speed directly into the driver's view, obviating the need for
the driver to take his or her eyes off the road ahead.

The new M6 will go on sale towards the end of 2005. Dates and prices will be
announced in due course.
Ends