BMW 6-Series 650i Convertible

BMW 6-Series 650i Convertible

The current BMW 6 Series was completely redesigned for 2012. An all-new, aluminum-intensive structure based on that of BMW's 5 and 7 Series sedans lends greater structural rigidity and keeps weight down. It keeps it light, but not svelte, as this new 6 Series also grew in size. The biggest changes are to the styling (which is toned down to be less adventurous) and to the engines. The new twin-turbo V8 is now almost as quick as the old V10-powered M6. As before, the 6 Series is available as a coupe and soft-top convertible in a single trim level known as the 650i. The convertible is significant for its clever soft-top roof design, which features a separately controlled rear window.

Lower it with the roof up for added ventilation, or raise it with the roof down for use a wind deflector. Under the hood is a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. Every 6 Series is rear-wheel drive and comes standard with an eight-speed automatic, though a six-speed manual is still available. Behind the wheel, no one will mistake the 2012 BMW 650i for a 3 Series. The 650i makes few sporting pretensions, and while we wouldn't call it athletic, it's also not at all wayward or uncoordinated. We frankly prefer the old car's hydraulic power steering to the new 6's electric setup, but it's still precise enough to make the big 6 Series feel reasonably spry.

Despite its increased size, the 6 Series is really best suited for two front passengers. The rear is more welcoming than the cramped confines of Jaguar's XK, but adults will only tolerate being cooped up in back for short trips. On the plus side, however, those up front will be treated to first-class accommodations with top-notch materials and high-tech gizmos aplenty. Furthermore, the trunk is absolutely huge for a sport coupe at 12.3 cubic feet. Even the convertible's trunk is a decently sized 10.6 cubic feet with the top lowered.

By comparison, retractable-hardtop convertibles can barely fit a pizza box with their roofs stowed away. In total, the BMW 6 Series is a compelling luxury car that'll make the daily slog or a road trip far more elegant and memorable. The previous, second-generation BMW 6 Series coupe and convertible was produced from 2004-'10. It was a bit smaller than the current car and featured more avant garde styling. Originally, this 6 Series came equipped with a 4.4-liter V8 rated at 325 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque and was known as the 645Ci. For 2006, the name changed to 650i (minus the "C") and its engine was updated to a 4.8-liter V8 that produced 360 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque.

Driving characteristics between the 645Ci and 650i are very similar: The smaller V8 shared the 4.8-liter's athletic character but had a slightly less vigorous power band. If you find a well-kept 645Ci on the used market, you won't find it lacking from a performance standpoint. The BMW 6-Series is completely redesigned for 2012, with new styling and increased power from an all-new 4.4L V8. The new model is three inches longer and slightly wider than the car it replaces, with tighter and cleaner front end styling, new headlights and a lower trunk line. Again offered as a coupe or convertible, it is available in one trim only for 2012: the 650i.