BMW M6: Difference between revisions
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[[Image:2006m6.jpg|right|thumb|300px| |
[[Image:2006m6.jpg|right|thumb|300px| 3 generations of BMW M-cars. From left to right: [[BMW M1]], E24 BMW M6, E63 BMW M6. ]] |
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The '''M6''' is a high-performance version of the [[BMW 6-Series]] [[automobile]]. |
The '''M6''' is a high-performance version of the [[BMW 6-Series]] [[automobile]]. |
Revision as of 02:36, 5 August 2005
The M6 is a high-performance version of the BMW 6-Series automobile.
1983
In 1983 BMW took the M88/3 engine, a modified version of the M88/1 from the BMW M1 and put it in the E24 chassis of the BMW 6-Series, creating the M635CSi, which was later shortened to M6. It was mounted it at a 30 degree angle to make the DOHC engine fit under the hood of the 6-Series. The M6 also had improved suspension, servo-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes, and a close ratio manual gearbox.
The M6 was critically acclaimed throughout its lifespan for its elegant, aggressive "shark-nose" styling, its well-appointed luxury features, and its quick performance. M6's can be distinguished from their brothers by a larger air dam, M6 badges on the grille and back, and subtle spoiler.
In America, the M6, whose engine designation was changed to S38, was regulated at 256bhp and 243 lb-ft. of torque. The European version, which had less restrictive emissions equipment imposed on it, had 286bhp and 251 lb-ft. of torque. The M6 was good for a 0-60 time of 6.4 and 6.8 seconds for the American and European versions, respectively.
Production of the M6 ended in 1989, with 5,855 cars sold.
2005
The new BMW M6 made its debut at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show. The new M6, based on the BMW E63/E64 6-Series, will be introduced in 2005. It will share its 5.0 L V10 507bhp, 384lb ft engine and SMG gearbox with the E60 M5. BMW claims it will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.6 seconds and have a electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), although it is rumoured to be capable of 200 mph (320 km/h) without the restriction. Drivers are unlikely to want all of the power, all of the time, the M6 will have the same 'power button' as the M5 which modifies the throttle response. From ignition, the car delivers 400bhp, but engaging the button allows the full 507bhp. It weighs 1710kg thanks to a carbonfibre roof panel as well as thermoplastic front wings, aluminium doors and bonnet and compound boot lid. Initially it will only be available as a coupe, although a cabriolet and a lightweight CSL version are expected in 2006 and 2007 respectively. It can be visually distinguished by its deeper front valance with air intakes, more contoured side sills and a rear valance with diffuser as well as four tail pipes.
The new BMW V10 engine has won the 2005 engine of the year. BMW has become the first car manufacturer to receive six different prizes within a year at the annual prestigious Engine of the Year Awards, one of the the world's top engine competitions. The BMW 5.0-litre V10 picked up International Engine of the Year Award 2005, Best New Engine Award 2005, Best Engine Above 4.0-litre Award 2005, and Best Performance Engine Award 2005.
References
Kable, G (14. December, 2004). BMW unleashes M6 supercoupe. Autocar pp. 8-11.