Review: BMW E64 6-Series convertible (2004-10)

Review: BMW E64.I 6-Series convertible (2004-07)

Overview

Released in May 2004, the BMW E64 Mk.I (E64.I) 6-Series was a two-door, four-seat convertible with a soft-top roof. Manufactured in Dingolfing, Germany, the rear-wheel drive E64 6-Series convertible range initially consisted of the 645ci, though this model was replaced by the 650i in October 2005. Please note that the E64 M6 Convertible has been reviewed separately.

Dimensions and suspension

Compared to the E63 6-Series coupe , the E64 6-Series convertible had the same dimensions: 4820 mm long, 1855 mm wide, 1373 mm high and with a 2780 mm long wheelbase. Similarly, the E64 6-Series had MacPherson strut front suspension with lower control arms and independent, multi-link rear suspension.

Steering

The E64 6-Series was fitted with Active Steering as standard, which varied the steering transmission ratio as a function of speed, becoming more direct at low speeds. Active Steering was also able to automatically correct oversteer by means of counter-steering, thereby supplementing the electronic stability control system.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the E64 6-Series Convertible included dual front airbags, front side airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, cornering brake control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

The 650i was fitted with BMW’s more advanced stability control system (‘DSC+’), which included hill start assist, ‘Brake Standby’ (for reduced braking response times), brake drying function, brake fade compensation and ‘Comfort Stop’ (which eased braking pressure when coming to rest).

Features

Standard features for the 645ci included 18-inch alloy wheels with runflat tyres, ten speaker stereo with six-disc CD player, climate control air conditioning, satellite navigation, leather seats, power adjustable heated front seats, three driver’s seat memory settings, cruise control, voice recognition, directional bi-xenon headlights, front and rear fog lights, front and rear parking sensors, power adjustable leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, electrochromatic and folding door mirrors, car phone, TV, alarm and immobiliser. Furthermore, the power-operated soft-top roof could be lowered in approximately 25 seconds.

The 650i was further equipped with a head-up display, Bluetooth connectivity, headlight washers, front door courtesy lights and footwell lights.

Review: BMW E64.II 6-Series convertible (2007-10)

Overview

Released in September 2007, the E64 Mk.II (E64.II) 6-Series convertible range introduced additional safety equipment and features. The 650i was also fitted with a new automatic transmission with gearshift paddles and a ‘Sport’ mode for quicker shifts (along with sharper throttle response and less power steering assistance). Visually, the E64.II 6-Series convertible could be distinguished by its wider air intake, daytime running lights, LED indicator lights and updated rear tail-lights.

Safety equipment

Compared to its E64.I predecessor, standard safety equipment was improved with the introduction of active front seat head restraints.

Features

Standard features were extended to include BMW’s ‘Comfort Access’ system with keyless entry and start, soft-close doors and a USB interface made standard.

650i Sport

From November 2009, the 650i was solely available as a ‘Sport’ variant; these models introduced 19-inch alloy wheels, Brake Energy Regeneration and a new iDrive control system which included an 8.8-inch monitor, high-definition TV and 80GB hard drive. Inside, the 650i Sport featured an ‘M’ leather steering wheel, brushed aluminium highlights, anthracite-coloured roof liner and lighting package. Cosmetic changes also extended to a new bonnet with arrow-shaped character lines and dark chrome exhaust tips.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: BMW E63 6-Series