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Motoring September 25, 2003  RSS feed

BMW’s ultimate coupe is reborn

Acorn Automotive Editor
By Michael Binstock

Many BMW enthusiasts believe that the only true BMW coupe is the 6 series and with the introduction of the all-new 6 Series Coupe, an icon is reborn. BMW isn’t just continuing the heritage of the legendary original 6 Series built from 1977-1989—it’s launching the modern expression of an icon—while paying homage to the company’s tradition of luxury coupes.

Much like the original, the new 6 Series Coupe is an eye-catcher. The styling is bold, purposeful, dynamic and elegant. Its unique design with sleek and flowing lines, supplemented by the harmony of elegant surfaces, gives the new 6 Series its unique character. With its smooth and pow-erful engine, shared with the 7 Series, its outstanding agility and abundant inte-rior space, the new BMW 645Ci will set new standards in the luxury sports coupe market.

The 6 Series Coupe excels in its classic proportions. The car is long, low and wide. It projects an aura of strength and self-confidence. The passenger cabin has a low roofline and is set back on the chassis.

The modern exterior continues smoothly and consistently throughout the interior. Similar to the new 5 Series, all the driving controls are located directly on or around the steering wheel. All comfort functions, in turn, are within easy reach from both front seats for convenience. The new 6 Series, again like the original, won’t only be admired for its style but will also be recognized as a driver’s car.

The 4.4-liter V8 engine already used in the BMW 745i ensures optimal power and torque over the entire engine speed range. Featuring fully variable Valvetronic valve control, the engine develops 325 horsepower and 330 lb.-ft. of powerful torque at 3,600 rpm. This enables the new 6 Series Coupe to effortlessly reach its top speed of 149 mph (electronically limited). Acceleration is equally good, with the BMW 645Ci covering the sprint from 0-60 mph in well under six seconds.

To convey this refined power to the rear wheels, BMW offers the driving enthusiast three different six-speed transmissions.

Consistent use of lightweight technologies contributes to driving comfort and agility. This class-leading agility is the result of the innovative combination of aluminum, steel and synthet-ic materials throughout the body. The front section of the car is significantly lighter than steel thanks to lightweight construction. Weight reduction continues throughout: the trunk lid is composite, the hood and doors are aluminum and the front fenders are thermoplastic.

All this contributes to a base weight in European trim of 3,528 lbs., with of course, weight distribution close to the perfect ratio of 50:50. This consistent reduction of weight ensures not only performance befitting a sports car, it also contributes to fuel economy.

All 6 Series Coupes feature BMW’s active roll stabilization, which almost completely eliminates body roll. Part of the sport package in the U.S. will be BMW’s unique active steering, which electronically varies the degree to which the front wheels turn in relation to steering input from the driver. Under normal driving conditions at low and medium speeds, the steering ratio becomes more direct, which causes the front wheels to turn more in relation to the steer wheel. This enhances the car’s performance in city traffic, when parking or in curves.